Welder Salary in Columbia, South Carolina
The median welder salary in Columbia, SC is $42,309 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 1.1% above the South Carolina state average.
Welder Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)
Columbia offers a median welder salary of $42,309, which is $470 above the South Carolina state average of $41,839. Compared to the national median of $47,010, 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 welders in Columbia spans from $29,880 at the 10th percentile to $63,720 at the 90th percentile — a $33,840 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $28,800, while senior welders with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $61,200. With a population of 131,674, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Welder Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level welder earns around $28,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $61,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, SC
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,880 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,920 |
| Median (50th) | $42,309 |
| 75th Percentile | $52,380 |
| 90th Percentile | $63,720 |
Welder Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Welder in Columbia
Education
Most welder positions require a high school diploma. Columbia and the surrounding South Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, welder employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Welder Jobs in Columbia
Browse open welder positions in Columbia, SC: