Average Highway Maintenance Workers Salary in Columbia, SC
The average salary for Highway Maintenance Workerss in Columbia, SC is $38,050. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Columbia, SC may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $38,050 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 17.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $45,380.
- Outlook: The current demand for Highway Maintenance Workerss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 140 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Columbia, SC economy.
Salary Overview
The average Highway Maintenance Workers in Columbia, SC earns-25.0%below the national average.
$18.3
$732
$3,171
Highway Maintenance Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Highway Maintenance Workers salaries in Columbia, SC have shown healthy growth of 17.4%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Highway Maintenance Workers Salary Distribution in Columbia, SC
The earning potential for Highway Maintenance Workerss in Columbia, SC varies significantly by experience level. The salary gap is relatively narrow, suggesting consistent and predictable earnings from entry-level to senior positions. Entry-level roles (10th percentile) typically start around $31,560, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $45,380.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $31,560 | $15.2 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $28,538 | $13.7 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $37,360 | $18 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $47,563 | $22.9 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $45,380 | $21.8 |
Detailed Highway Maintenance Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$38,050
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$38,050
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Columbia, SC, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $38,050 to $38,050.
Job Market Context
140
Total Jobs
0.361
Per 1K Jobs
0.37
Location Quotient
At 0.37x, Columbia, SC has a notably lower concentration of Highway Maintenance Workers jobs than the national average. Opportunities in this area are relatively scarce for this profession.
140 people work as Highway Maintenance Workers in Columbia, SC.
Only 0.361 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Highway Maintenance Workers roles — this is a niche profession in the area.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Highway Maintenance Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Northwestern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Highway Maintenance Workers Salary | $36,910↓ 3% | 13 mi |
| Northeastern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Highway Maintenance Workers Salary | $36,790↓ 3% | 13 mi |
| Southern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Highway Maintenance Workers Salary | $41,670↑ 10% | 13 mi |
| Florence, SC Highway Maintenance Workers Salary | $39,150↑ 3% | 64 mi |
Comparing salaries near Columbia, SC
Hiring Highway Maintenance Workerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Highway Maintenance Workers make in Columbia, SC?
The median annual salary for a Highway Maintenance Workers in Columbia, SC is $38,050. This typically ranges from $31,560 for entry-level positions to $45,380 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Columbia, SC is 25.0% lower than the national median of $50,740.
Is Columbia, SC a good place for Highway Maintenance Workerss?
It depends on your priorities. While the average Highway Maintenance Workers salary in Columbia, SC is $38,050 (below the national average), the area may offer a lower cost of living or other lifestyle benefits typical of Columbia, SC. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Columbia, SC a good place to live for Highway Maintenance Workers?
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 ($36,910) and Northeastern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 140 employees in the Columbia, SC area with a job density of 0.361 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Highway Maintenance Workers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Columbia, SC