Average Protective Service Occupations Salary in Columbia, SC
In Columbia, SC, professionals in Protective Service Occupations earn an average annual salary of $48,630. This figure notably surpasses the national average of $43,820, indicating a favorable compensation landscape for these roles within the state capital. Local economic factors and demand likely contribute to this elevated pay.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $48,630 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 24.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $74,030.
- Outlook: The protective services sector in Columbia, SC, is robust, employing 12,190 individuals. With a Location Quotient of 1.33, this occupation group is more concentrated in Columbia than the national average, suggesting a strong and established presence. The rate of 31.589 jobs per 1,000 workers further underscores the significant demand and employment opportunities within this field in the region.
Salary Overview
The average Protective Service Occupations in Columbia, SC earns+11.0%above the national average.
$23.4
$935
$4,053
Protective Service Occupations Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it's reasonable to assume that salaries for Protective Service Occupations in Columbia, SC, have experienced growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Economic development and evolving security needs typically drive salary increases in this sector, ensuring that compensation remains competitive and reflects the value of these essential services.
Protective Service Occupations Salary Distribution in Columbia, SC
Career progression within Protective Service Occupations in Columbia, SC, is typically marked by increasing earning potential. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the salary spectrum, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and leadership responsibilities can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify the opportunities for career advancement and increased compensation as one gains experience and expertise.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period. | 10% (Entry) | $28,740 | $13.8 |
| OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls. | 25% (Junior) | $36,473 | $17.5 |
| Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit. | 50% (Median) | $42,670 | $20.5 |
| Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader. | 75% (Senior) | $60,788 | $29.2 |
| Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration. | 90% (Expert) | $74,030 | $35.6 |
Detailed Protective Service Occupations Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$48,630
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$48,630
Adjusted for COL (100)
For individuals considering a move to Columbia, SC, the average annual salary of $48,630 aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of the salary is directly comparable to the national average, offering a stable financial foundation without the immediate pressure of higher living expenses often associated with above-average salaries in other regions.
Job Market Context
12,190
Total Jobs
31.589
Per 1K Jobs
1.33
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.33, Columbia, SC has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Protective Service Occupations roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.33 for Protective Service Occupations in Columbia, SC, signifies a market where these roles are more prevalent than the national average. This suggests a healthy demand and a potentially competitive environment, where employers may need to offer attractive compensation and benefits to secure skilled professionals. The concentration indicates a specialized labor pool and established industry presence.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Protective Service Occupations
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Northwestern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Protective Service Occupations Salary | $48,700↑ 0% | 13 mi |
| Northeastern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Protective Service Occupations Salary | $47,750↓ 2% | 13 mi |
| Southern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area Protective Service Occupations Salary | $51,300↑ 5% | 13 mi |
| Sumter, SC Protective Service Occupations Salary | $50,180↑ 3% | 30 mi |
| Florence, SC Protective Service Occupations Salary | $45,770↓ 6% | 64 mi |
Comparing salaries near Columbia, SC
Hiring Protective Service Occupationss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Protective Service Occupations make in Columbia, SC?
The median annual salary for a Protective Service Occupations in Columbia, SC is $48,630. This typically ranges from $28,740 for entry-level positions to $74,030 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Columbia, SC is 11.0% higher than the national median of $43,820.
Is Columbia, SC a lucrative place for Protective Service Occupationss?
Yes, Columbia, SC offers a lucrative environment for Protective Service Occupations.The average salary of $48,630 significantly exceeds the national average, and the cost of living is on par with the national average, indicating strong purchasing power for these professionals.
Is Columbia, SC a good place to live for Protective Service 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 ($48,700) and Northeastern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area.
How does the salary for Protective Service Occupations in Columbia, SC compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Protective Service Occupations in Columbia, SC is $48,630, which is higher than the national average of $43,820.
What is the Cost of Living Index in Columbia, SC, and how does it affect salary?
Columbia, SC has a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the $48,630 salary has the same purchasing power as the national average salary.
How concentrated is the Protective Service Occupations job market in Columbia, SC?
The job market for Protective Service Occupations is more concentrated in Columbia, SC, than the national average, with a Location Quotient of 1.33, indicating a strong local presence and demand.
What does the number of jobs per 1,000 workers suggest about this field in Columbia, SC?
With 31.589 jobs per 1,000 workers, the Protective Service Occupations field in Columbia, SC, shows a significant presence and employment opportunities relative to the overall workforce.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 12,190 employees in the Columbia, SC area with a job density of 31.589 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Protective Service Occupations • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Columbia, SC