Average Nursing Assistants Salary in Columbia, SC
Nursing Assistants in Columbia, SC, earn an average annual salary of $35,630. This figure is notably below the national average of $41,050, suggesting that local economic factors and demand dynamics play a significant role in compensation within the state capital. While the nominal pay may be lower, understanding the context of the local job market is crucial.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $35,630 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 25.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $42,100.
- Outlook: Columbia, SC, hosts a substantial workforce of 4,940 Nursing Assistants, indicating a significant presence of this profession. The Location Quotient of 1.42 signifies that this role is more concentrated in Columbia than the national average, pointing towards a robust and potentially growing demand for these essential healthcare workers within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Nursing Assistants in Columbia, SC earns-13.2%below the national average.
$17.1
$685
$2,969
Nursing Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Columbia, SC is not provided, it's reasonable to assume that salaries for Nursing Assistants have seen a gradual upward trend over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. This growth is typically driven by increasing healthcare needs, inflation, and evolving labor market conditions, suggesting a potentially positive trajectory for future earnings.
Nursing Assistants Salary Distribution in Columbia, SC
The salary spectrum for Nursing Assistants in Columbia, SC, naturally widens with experience. Entry-level positions will likely fall at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with years of dedicated service and advanced skills can command significantly higher compensation. The percentile gaps in salary data reflect these opportunities for career progression and increased earning potential.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $28,320 | $13.6 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $26,723 | $12.8 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $36,410 | $17.5 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $44,538 | $21.4 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $42,100 | $20.2 |
Detailed Nursing Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$35,630
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$35,630
Adjusted for COL (100)
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, Columbia, SC, is perfectly aligned with the national average. This means that the nominal salary of $35,630 for Nursing Assistants holds its purchasing power comparably to the national median. While the salary is below the national average, the cost of living being average suggests that the real value of the salary is not disproportionately diminished.
Job Market Context
4,940
Total Jobs
12.81
Per 1K Jobs
1.42
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.42, Columbia, SC has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Nursing Assistants roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.42 for Nursing Assistants in Columbia, SC, strongly indicates a higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average. This suggests a more abundant job market for Nursing Assistants in the area, potentially leading to increased competition among job seekers but also signifying a strong regional demand for their services.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Nursing Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Northwestern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Nursing Assistants Salary | $34,710↓ 3% | 13 mi |
| Northeastern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Nursing Assistants Salary | $33,150↓ 7% | 13 mi |
| Southern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Nursing Assistants Salary | $32,820↓ 8% | 13 mi |
| Sumter, SC Nursing Assistants Salary | $34,340↓ 4% | 30 mi |
| Florence, SC Nursing Assistants Salary | $33,140↓ 7% | 64 mi |
Comparing salaries near Columbia, SC
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Nursing Assistants make in Columbia, SC?
The median annual salary for a Nursing Assistants in Columbia, SC is $35,630. This typically ranges from $28,320 for entry-level positions to $42,100 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Columbia, SC is 13.2% lower than the national median of $41,050.
Is Columbia, SC a lucrative place for Nursing Assistants?
No, not compared to the national average.Nursing Assistants in Columbia, SC, earn an average of $35,630, which is below the national average of $41,050. However, the cost of living is also at the national average, meaning the purchasing power is comparable.
Is Columbia, SC a good place to live for Nursing Assistants?
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 ($34,710) and Northeastern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area.
How many Nursing Assistants work in Columbia, SC?
There are approximately 4,940 Nursing Assistants employed in Columbia, SC, making it a significant segment of the local healthcare workforce.
Is the demand for Nursing Assistants high in Columbia, SC?
Yes, the Location Quotient of 1.42 suggests a higher concentration of Nursing Assistant jobs in Columbia, SC, than the national average, indicating strong regional demand.
How does experience affect a Nursing Assistant's salary in Columbia, SC?
Experience plays a crucial role, with entry-level positions offering lower pay and senior roles commanding higher salaries, reflecting career progression and skill development.
What is the cost of living in Columbia, SC for Nursing Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Columbia, SC, is 100, which is the national average, meaning the cost of goods and services is comparable to the rest of the country.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 4,940 employees in the Columbia, SC area with a job density of 12.81 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Nursing Assistants • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Columbia, SC