Average Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary in Columbia, SC
In Columbia, SC, professionals in Transportation and Material Moving Occupations earn an average annual salary of $41,860. This figure is notably below the national average of $48,350, reflecting localized economic factors and regional demand specific to the South Carolina market. The prevailing wage in Columbia is thus shaped by the unique interplay of local industry needs and the broader economic landscape of the state.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $41,860 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 24.7% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $62,140.
- Outlook: With a substantial local workforce of 34,020 individuals in Transportation and Material Moving Occupations, Columbia, SC demonstrates a significant presence in this sector. The location quotient of 1 indicates that this industry is present in Columbia at a rate consistent with the national average, suggesting a stable and established job market rather than one experiencing explosive growth or significant decline.
Salary Overview
The average Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Columbia, SC earns-13.4%below the national average.
$20.1
$805
$3,488
Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Columbia, SC's Transportation and Material Moving Occupations is not provided, it is generally assumed that salaries within this sector have experienced incremental growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth is typically driven by inflation, increased demand for logistics services, and evolving industry standards.
Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary Distribution in Columbia, SC
Salary progression within Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Columbia, SC, is strongly tied to experience and specialization. Entry-level positions typically command lower salaries, while senior roles, those requiring specialized skills, or supervisory positions offer significantly higher compensation. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential as professionals gain experience and expertise.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $28,010 | $13.5 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $31,395 | $15.1 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $36,970 | $17.8 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $52,325 | $25.2 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $62,140 | $29.9 |
Detailed Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$41,860
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$41,860
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $41,860 in Columbia, SC, aligns precisely with the national average cost of living index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of the salary is neither enhanced nor diminished by local living expenses when compared to the national standard, offering a balanced financial environment for residents.
Job Market Context
34,020
Total Jobs
88.137
Per 1K Jobs
1
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.00, Columbia, SC has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Transportation and Material Moving Occupations roles compared to the national norm.
A location quotient of 1 for Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Columbia, SC, signifies that the concentration of these jobs in the area is exactly at the national average. This suggests a balanced job market where the industry is well-represented but not disproportionately dominant, indicating a moderate level of competition and availability for skilled professionals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Transportation and Material Moving Occupations
Comparing salaries near Columbia, SC
Hiring Transportation and Material Moving Occupationss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Transportation and Material Moving Occupations make in Columbia, SC?
The median annual salary for a Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Columbia, SC is $41,860. This typically ranges from $28,010 for entry-level positions to $62,140 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Columbia, SC is 13.4% lower than the national median of $48,350.
Is Columbia, SC a lucrative place for Transportation and Material Moving Occupationss?
No, not particularly lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $41,860 is below the national average, although the cost of living is also at the national average, making the real value of the salary comparable.
Is Columbia, SC a good place to live for Transportation and Material Moving 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 ($38,520) and Northeastern South Carolina nonmetropolitan area.
How does the local workforce size impact job availability?
A large local workforce of 34,020 suggests a robust sector, indicating consistent demand for roles within Transportation and Material Moving Occupations, though the location quotient suggests it's not disproportionately concentrated.
What is the significance of a Location Quotient of 1?
A Location Quotient of 1 means the concentration of Transportation and Material Moving Occupations jobs in Columbia, SC, is precisely the same as the national average, indicating a standard level of industry presence.
How does experience affect salary in this field in Columbia, SC?
Experience is a key driver of salary increases, with entry-level roles paying less and senior or specialized positions offering substantially higher compensation, reflecting a clear career progression path.
Is the cost of living in Columbia, SC a factor in the average salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, Columbia, SC, matches the national average. This means the $41,860 salary has average purchasing power, neither significantly boosted nor hindered by local living costs.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 34,020 employees in the Columbia, SC area with a job density of 88.137 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
Explore Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salaries by State
Top Jobs in Columbia, SC
- All Occupations Salary in Columbia, SC
- Office and Administrative Support Occupations Salary in Columbia, SC
- Sales and Related Occupations Salary in Columbia, SC
- Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary in Columbia, SC
- Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations Salary in Columbia, SC
- Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations Salary in Columbia, SC
- Production Occupations Salary in Columbia, SC
- Business and Financial Operations Occupations Salary in Columbia, SC
- Management Occupations Salary in Columbia, SC
- Educational Instruction and Library Occupations Salary in Columbia, SC
- Browse All Jobs in Columbia, SC →
Semantic Salary Analysis for Transportation and Material Moving Occupations • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Columbia, SC