Software Engineer Salary in South Carolina
The median software engineer salary in South Carolina is $108,054 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $124,200.
Software Engineer Salary Overview in South Carolina (2026)
South Carolina ranks #39 out of 50 states for software engineer compensation. Software Engineer salaries in South Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $108,054 per year, software engineers in South Carolina earn $16,146 less than the national median of $124,200.
A key advantage of working in South Carolina is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $108,054 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $121,409 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in South Carolina is significant: software engineers at the 10th percentile earn $64,902, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $172,765 — a $107,863 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in South Carolina for this role is Mount Pleasant, where the median reaches $127,926.
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in South Carolina and beyond.
Software Engineer Salary in South Carolina by Experience
In South Carolina, an entry-level software engineer earns around $67,860, while experienced professionals earn up to $160,950 per year. The cost of living index in South Carolina is 89% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in South Carolina
| Percentile | SC Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $64,902 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,434 |
| Median (50th) | $108,054 |
| 75th Percentile | $137,634 |
| 90th Percentile | $172,765 |
Software Engineer Salary by City in South Carolina
The largest employment areas for software engineers in South Carolina include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and North Charleston. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Software Engineer in South Carolina
Education
Most software engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. South Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in South Carolina
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). South Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Software Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $52,896 over your career trajectory.
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