Urban Planner Salary in Columbia, Missouri
The median urban planner salary in Columbia, MO is $69,995 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 0.0% above the Missouri state average.
Urban Planner Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)
Columbia offers a median urban planner salary of $69,995, which is $0 above the Missouri state average of $69,995. Compared to the national median of $79,540, Columbia pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Columbia's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $69,995 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $79,540 in an average-cost city. This makes Columbia an attractive option for urban planners seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for urban planners in Columbia spans from $44,000 at the 10th percentile to $107,360 at the 90th percentile — a $63,360 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $45,760, while senior urban planners with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $103,840. With a population of 126,254, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Urban Planner Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level urban planner earns around $45,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $103,840 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, MO
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $44,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $55,440 |
| Median (50th) | $69,995 |
| 75th Percentile | $88,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $107,360 |
Urban Planner Salary in Other Missouri Cities
How to Become a Urban Planner in Columbia
Education
Most urban planner positions require a master's degree. Columbia and the surrounding Missouri area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, urban planner employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Urban Planner Jobs in Columbia
Browse open urban planner positions in Columbia, MO: