Average Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks Salary in Columbia, SC
In Columbia, SC, Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks earn an average annual salary of $51,850. This figure is slightly below the national average of $56,360, indicating that local market dynamics and the specific economic landscape of South Carolina play a significant role in compensation for these essential roles.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $51,850 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 12.2% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $70,550.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 250 Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks, Columbia, SC presents a moderately concentrated job market. The Location Quotient of 0.63 suggests that while the profession is present, it is less concentrated than the national average, implying a stable but not rapidly expanding demand for these specialized skills within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Columbia, SC earns-8.0%below the national average.
$24.9
$997
$4,321
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Columbia, SC is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks have seen gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Economic shifts and the increasing complexity of payroll regulations likely contribute to a steady upward trajectory in compensation for experienced professionals.
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks Salary Distribution in Columbia, SC
Career progression for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Columbia, SC, typically involves a salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower percentiles, while senior clerks with extensive knowledge of compliance and advanced systems can command salaries in the higher percentiles, reflecting a significant earning potential as expertise grows.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate / AnalystData entry, reporting, supporting senior staff. | 10% (Entry) | $36,600 | $17.6 |
| Senior AnalystIndependent analysis, forecasting, client interaction. | 25% (Junior) | $38,888 | $18.7 |
| ManagerOversees team, compliance, and project delivery. | 50% (Median) | $50,480 | $24.3 |
| Director / VPStrategic planning, budget ownership, risk management. | 75% (Senior) | $64,813 | $31.2 |
| Executive / PartnerC-level leadership. High-level strategy & relations. | 90% (Expert) | $70,550 | $33.9 |
Detailed Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$51,850
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$51,850
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $51,850 in Columbia, SC, aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the purchasing power of a Payroll and Timekeeping Clerk's salary in Columbia is equivalent to the national average, offering a stable financial standing relative to the cost of goods and services.
Job Market Context
250
Total Jobs
0.64
Per 1K Jobs
0.63
Location Quotient
Columbia, SC has 0.63x the national average concentration of Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
A Location Quotient of 0.63 for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Columbia, SC, indicates that the employment concentration for this role is below the national average. This suggests that while there is a consistent need for these professionals, the market is not oversaturated, potentially offering good opportunities for skilled individuals without intense competition.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Northwestern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks Salary | $49,290↓ 5% | 13 mi |
| Northeastern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks Salary | $49,340↓ 5% | 13 mi |
| Southern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks Salary | $49,100↓ 5% | 13 mi |
| Sumter, SC Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks Salary | $48,120↓ 7% | 30 mi |
| Florence, SC Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks Salary | $49,140↓ 5% | 64 mi |
Comparing salaries near Columbia, SC
Hiring Payroll and Timekeeping Clerkss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks make in Columbia, SC?
The median annual salary for a Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Columbia, SC is $51,850. This typically ranges from $36,600 for entry-level positions to $70,550 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Columbia, SC is 8.0% lower than the national median of $56,360.
Is Columbia, SC a lucrative place for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks?
No, it is not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $51,850 is below the national average of $56,360. However, the cost of living is also at the national average, meaning the salary's purchasing power is equivalent nationally.
Is Columbia, SC a good place to live for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks?
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 ($49,290) and Northeastern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area.
How does the number of Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Columbia, SC compare nationally?
With 0.64 jobs per 1,000 workers, the density of Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks in Columbia, SC is lower than the national average, reflecting a less concentrated employment landscape for this specific role.
What is the significance of the Location Quotient (LQ) for this role in Columbia, SC?
An LQ of 0.63 means that Columbia, SC has fewer Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks relative to its overall workforce compared to the national average, suggesting a moderate level of industry presence.
Does experience significantly impact a Payroll and Timekeeping Clerk's salary in Columbia, SC?
Yes, as with most professions, experience is a key factor. Senior Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks typically earn more than entry-level staff due to increased responsibilities and specialized knowledge.
How does the cost of living in Columbia, SC affect the perceived value of the salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, the $51,850 salary in Columbia, SC, offers the same purchasing power as the national average salary, indicating a balanced economic environment 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 250 employees in the Columbia, SC area with a job density of 0.64 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Columbia, SC