Average Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary in Columbia, SC
Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Columbia, SC, earn an average annual salary of $38,780. This figure is notably below the national average of $51,720, reflecting localized economic factors and demand specific to the South Carolina capital. The pay scale in Columbia is influenced by the regional cost of labor and the overall economic landscape of the area.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $38,780 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 49.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $50,770.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 510 Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors, Columbia, SC, demonstrates a significant concentration of these roles, indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.47. This suggests that the demand for these essential services is higher in Columbia relative to the national average, pointing towards a robust job market for this profession within the city.
Salary Overview
The average Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Columbia, SC earns-25.0%below the national average.
$18.6
$746
$3,232
Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data isn't provided, it's reasonable to assume that salaries for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Columbia, SC, have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring general economic trends and inflation. Increases in operational costs and a sustained demand for waste management services likely contribute to upward pressure on wages.
Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary Distribution in Columbia, SC
Career progression for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors typically involves moving from entry-level positions to more senior roles, often accompanied by salary increases. While specific percentile data is unavailable, the difference between starting wages and the average salary of $38,780 signifies potential for earning growth as collectors gain experience, develop specialized skills, and take on greater responsibilities.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $23,470 | $11.3 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $29,085 | $14 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $41,330 | $19.9 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $48,475 | $23.3 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $50,770 | $24.4 |
Detailed Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$38,780
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$38,780
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $38,780 for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Columbia, SC, aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the nominal salary offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average, suggesting that the cost of essential goods and services in Columbia is neither significantly higher nor lower than the typical American city.
Job Market Context
510
Total Jobs
1.328
Per 1K Jobs
1.47
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.47, Columbia, SC has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.47 for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Columbia, SC, indicates a higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average. This suggests a more abundant job market for this profession in Columbia, potentially leading to greater opportunities and a more competitive environment for employers seeking to fill these roles.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors
Comparing salaries near Columbia, SC
Hiring Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectorss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors make in Columbia, SC?
The median annual salary for a Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Columbia, SC is $38,780. This typically ranges from $23,470 for entry-level positions to $50,770 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 $51,720.
Is Columbia, SC a lucrative place for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectorss?
No, not compared to the national average.While the cost of living is average, the average salary of $38,780 is significantly lower than the national average of $51,720. The high concentration of jobs suggests demand, but not necessarily higher pay.
Is Columbia, SC a good place to live for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors?
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 ($31,310) and Northeastern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area.
How does the number of Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Columbia compare nationally?
With 1.328 jobs per 1,000 workers, Columbia has a notable presence of Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors, exceeding the national average concentration.
What does a Location Quotient of 1.47 mean for job seekers?
A Location Quotient above 1.0, like 1.47, signifies that Columbia, SC, has a higher proportion of Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors jobs relative to its overall workforce compared to the national average, indicating strong local demand.
How does the cost of living in Columbia affect the salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, Columbia's cost of living is average. This means the $38,780 salary has average purchasing power, neither inflated nor depressed by local living expenses.
Are there many opportunities for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Columbia, SC?
Yes, the Location Quotient of 1.47 suggests a concentrated industry, implying a healthy job market with potentially more openings than in areas with lower quotients.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 510 employees in the Columbia, SC area with a job density of 1.328 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Columbia, SC