Creative & Education Columbia, SC
Pop. 131,674
Social Worker Salary in Columbia, South Carolina
The median social worker salary in Columbia, SC is $49,815 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 1.1% above the South Carolina state average.
City Median
$49,815
vs State Avg
+$553
vs National
$-5,535
Cost of Living
90%
Social Worker Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level social worker earns around $34,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $73,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$34,200
$-3,800 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$50,400
$-5,600 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$73,800
$-8,200 vs national
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, SC
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,760 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,780 |
| Median (50th) | $49,815 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,360 |
| 90th Percentile | $79,020 |
Social Worker Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Social Worker in Columbia
Education
Most social worker positions require a bachelor's degree. Columbia and the surrounding South Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Case ManagementCounselingCrisis InterventionCommunity ResourcesAdvocacyDocumentation
Job Outlook
Nationally, social worker employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.