Compensation & Benefits Specialist Salary in Columbia
Manages employee pay structures, benefits programs, and job classification systems.
Columbia ranks #455 of 530 U.S. metro areas for compensation & benefits specialist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $8,157 below the national average.
Columbia vs National Average
| Level | This Metro | National Avg | Difference | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level I (Entry) | $42,099 | $50,256 | $-8,157 | -16.2% |
| Level II | $52,520 | $61,931 | $-9,411 | -15.2% |
| Level III (Mid) | $62,920 | $73,605 | $-10,685 | -14.5% |
| Level IV (Senior) | $73,341 | $85,280 | $-11,939 | -14.0% |
Other metros in South Carolina
| Metro Area | Level I | Level IV | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeastern South Carolina | $47,299 | $92,248 | $77,418 |
| Northwestern South Carolina | $47,070 | $90,688 | $76,294 |
| Charleston-North Charleston | $46,571 | $88,629 | $74,755 |
| Spartanburg | $48,194 | $84,261 | $72,363 |
| Greenville-Anderson-Greer | $48,672 | $83,928 | $72,280 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average compensation & benefits specialist salary in Columbia?
The average compensation & benefits specialist salary in Columbia is $63,024 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Columbia at rank #455 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.
What do entry-level compensation & benefits specialists earn in Columbia?
Entry-level compensation & benefits specialists (Level I) in Columbia earn $42,099 per year. Level II (early career) earns $52,520, reflecting growing independence and experience.
How does Columbia compare to the national average for compensation & benefits specialist salaries?
Columbia ranks #455 of 530 U.S. metro areas for compensation & benefits specialist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $8,157 below the national average. The national average compensation & benefits specialist salary is $73,722, while Columbia workers average $63,024 — a difference of -15% overall.
Data source: Salary data sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, which surveys employers nationwide to collect wage data by occupation and geography. The four experience levels reflect DOL standardized tiers. Data reflects the most recently published survey cycle. SOC code: 13-1141.