Veterinarian Salary in Columbia, South Carolina
The median veterinarian salary in Columbia, SC is $92,934 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 1.1% above the South Carolina state average.
Veterinarian Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)
Columbia offers a median veterinarian salary of $92,934, which is $1,033 above the South Carolina state average of $91,901. Compared to the national median of $103,260, Columbia pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Columbia's cost of living is 90% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for veterinarians in Columbia spans from $58,680 at the 10th percentile to $156,780 at the 90th percentile — a $98,100 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $61,200, while senior veterinarians with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $139,500. With a population of 131,674, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Veterinarian Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level veterinarian earns around $61,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $139,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, SC
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $58,680 |
| 25th Percentile | $72,360 |
| Median (50th) | $92,934 |
| 75th Percentile | $120,960 |
| 90th Percentile | $156,780 |
Veterinarian Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Veterinarian in Columbia
Education
Most veterinarian positions require a doctoral degree. Columbia and the surrounding South Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, veterinarian employment is projected to grow 19% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Veterinarian Jobs in Columbia
Browse open veterinarian positions in Columbia, SC: