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Average Production Occupations Salary in Columbia, SC

In Columbia, SC, professionals in Production Occupations can expect an average annual salary of $47,870. This figure is slightly below the national average of $49,710, a common trend in regions with a cost of living that aligns with the national benchmark. Local economic factors and industry demand play a significant role in shaping compensation within the state.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $47,870 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 18.1% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $67,100.
  • Outlook: Columbia, SC boasts a substantial local workforce of 23,750 individuals in Production Occupations, indicating a robust presence in this sector. The Location Quotient of 1.09 suggests that this field is slightly more concentrated in Columbia than the national average, pointing to a healthy and potentially growing demand for these roles within the local economy.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$47,870

The average Production Occupations in Columbia, SC earns-3.7%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$23

Weekly

$921

Monthly

$3,989

Production Occupations Salary Distribution in Columbia, SC

Career progression within Production Occupations in Columbia, SC, significantly impacts earning potential. Entry-level positions typically start at the lower end of the salary spectrum, while experienced professionals and those in senior or specialized roles can command substantially higher salaries. The percentile gaps between entry-level and senior positions highlight the clear opportunities for career advancement and increased compensation.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$31,160$15
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$35,903$17.3
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$44,550$21.4
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$59,838$28.8
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$67,100$32.3

Detailed Production Occupations Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$47,870

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$47,870

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $47,870 in Columbia, SC, aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the nominal salary offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average, making relocation financially neutral from a cost-of-living perspective.

Job Market Context

23,750

Total Jobs

61.534

Per 1K Jobs

1.09

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.09, Columbia, SC has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Production Occupations roles compared to the national norm.

With a Location Quotient of 1.09, the job market for Production Occupations in Columbia, SC, is slightly more concentrated than the national average. This indicates a competitive yet stable environment where the demand for skilled production workers is robust, suggesting good opportunities for those entering or advancing within the field.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Production Occupationss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Production Occupations make in Columbia, SC?

The median annual salary for a Production Occupations in Columbia, SC is $47,870. This typically ranges from $31,160 for entry-level positions to $67,100 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Columbia, SC is 3.7% lower than the national median of $49,710.

Is Columbia, SC a lucrative place for Production Occupations?

Yes, with caveats.The average salary of $47,870 is close to the national average, and the cost of living is also at the national average. The slightly higher concentration of these jobs (LQ 1.09) suggests consistent demand.

Is Columbia, SC a good place to live for Production Occupations?

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 ($46,380) and Northeastern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area.

How does experience affect salary for Production Occupations in Columbia, SC?

Experience is a key driver of salary growth. Entry-level roles will offer lower pay, while senior or specialized positions command significantly higher compensation, reflecting increased skills and responsibilities.

What is the significance of the Location Quotient (LQ) for Production Occupations in Columbia, SC?

An LQ of 1.09 means that Production Occupations are 9% more concentrated in Columbia, SC, compared to the national average. This suggests a stronger local industry presence and potentially more job opportunities relative to other sectors.

How does the cost of living in Columbia, SC, impact the Production Occupations salary?

With a Cost of Living Index of 100, the local cost of living matches the national average. Therefore, the $47,870 salary provides purchasing power equivalent to the national average, making it a balanced financial proposition.

What is the total number of Production Occupations jobs in Columbia, SC?

There are approximately 23,750 individuals employed in Production Occupations within the Columbia, SC, area, indicating a substantial workforce in this sector.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 23,750 employees in the Columbia, SC area with a job density of 61.534 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.