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Average Architectural and Engineering Managers Salary in Columbia, SC

Architectural and Engineering Managers in Columbia, SC, earn an average annual salary of $160,030. This figure is notably below the national average of $177,610, suggesting that local market dynamics and potentially a different demand-supply equilibrium influence compensation in this South Carolina hub. Factors such as the regional economic landscape and the specific needs of local industries likely contribute to this pay differential.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $160,030 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 28.3% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $223,370.
  • Outlook: With a local workforce of 340 Architectural and Engineering Managers, Columbia, SC, presents a modest but stable employment landscape for these professionals. The Location Quotient of 0.65 indicates a concentration below the national average, suggesting that while the profession is present, it is not a dominant sector within the local economy. The rate of 0.887 jobs per 1,000 workers further underscores a moderate level of demand, implying a steady but not explosive job market.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$160,030

The average Architectural and Engineering Managers in Columbia, SC earns-9.9%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$76.9

Weekly

$3,078

Monthly

$13,336

Architectural and Engineering Managers Salary Distribution in Columbia, SC

Salary progression for Architectural and Engineering Managers in Columbia, SC, is significantly influenced by experience. Entry-level positions typically command salaries at the lower end of the spectrum, while seasoned professionals with extensive project leadership and management expertise can expect to earn considerably more, often reaching the higher percentiles. The widening gap between entry-level and senior-level salaries reflects the increasing value placed on specialized knowledge, strategic oversight, and proven track records in managing complex projects.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Associate / AnalystData entry, reporting, supporting senior staff.10% (Entry)$100,920$48.5
Senior AnalystIndependent analysis, forecasting, client interaction.25% (Junior)$120,023$57.7
ManagerOversees team, compliance, and project delivery.50% (Median)$147,060$70.7
Director / VPStrategic planning, budget ownership, risk management.75% (Senior)$200,038$96.2
Executive / PartnerC-level leadership. High-level strategy & relations.90% (Expert)$223,370$107.4

Detailed Architectural and Engineering Managers Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$160,030

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$160,030

Adjusted for COL (100)

The nominal average salary of $160,030 in Columbia, SC, aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of an Architectural and Engineering Manager's salary in Columbia is equivalent to that of their national counterparts, offering a stable financial standing relative to the cost of goods and services.

Job Market Context

340

Total Jobs

0.887

Per 1K Jobs

0.65

Location Quotient

Below Average

Columbia, SC has 0.65x the national average concentration of Architectural and Engineering Managers jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.

The Location Quotient of 0.65 for Architectural and Engineering Managers in Columbia, SC, signifies that the concentration of these roles is 35% lower than the national average. This suggests that the job market is less saturated compared to national benchmarks, which could imply a more competitive environment for job seekers if demand is relatively stable, or potentially more opportunities for those with specialized skills if local industries are growing.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Architectural and Engineering Managerss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Architectural and Engineering Managers make in Columbia, SC?

The median annual salary for a Architectural and Engineering Managers in Columbia, SC is $160,030. This typically ranges from $100,920 for entry-level positions to $223,370 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Columbia, SC is 9.9% lower than the national median of $177,610.

Is Columbia, SC a lucrative place for Architectural and Engineering Managers?

No, not as lucrative as the national average.While the average salary of $160,030 is substantial, it falls below the national average of $177,610. However, the cost of living being at the national average means the purchasing power is comparable.

Is Columbia, SC a good place to live for Architectural and Engineering Managers?

The Cost of Living Index in Columbia, SC is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Columbia, SC?

Some top paying nearby cities include Northwestern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area ($152,170) and Northeastern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area.

How does the local workforce size affect job prospects?

A local workforce of 340 indicates a moderate-sized professional community. While not as large as major metropolitan areas, it suggests a consistent need for these roles within the region's economic structure.

What does a Location Quotient of 0.65 mean for job seekers?

A Location Quotient below 1.0, like 0.65, means there are fewer Architectural and Engineering Managers per capita in Columbia, SC, compared to the national average. This could mean less competition for specialized roles but also potentially fewer openings overall.

How does the Cost of Living in Columbia, SC, compare nationally?

Columbia, SC, has a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is exactly the national average. This means that, on average, expenses for housing, utilities, groceries, and transportation are neither significantly higher nor lower than the rest of the country.

What is the job density for this role in Columbia, SC?

The metric of 0.887 jobs per 1,000 workers indicates the prevalence of Architectural and Engineering Manager positions within the local labor market, suggesting a steady, albeit not exceptionally high, demand for these professionals.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 340 employees in the Columbia, SC area with a job density of 0.887 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.