Computer & Information Research Scientist Salary in Columbia

Conducts research on fundamental computer and information science problems and develops new technology.

Ranks #367 of 530 metros·South Carolina·$118,123 avg

Columbia ranks #367 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer & information research scientist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $7,235 below the national average.

Level I
$82,098
vs national avg: -8%
Level II
$100,027
vs national avg: -12%
Level III
$117,936
vs national avg: -14%
Level IV
$135,866
vs national avg: -16%

Columbia vs National Average

LevelThis MetroNational AvgDifference% Change
Level I (Entry)$82,098$89,333$-7,235-8.1%
Level II$100,027$113,349$-13,322-11.8%
Level III (Mid)$117,936$137,363$-19,427-14.1%
Level IV (Senior)$135,866$161,379$-25,513-15.8%

Other metros in South Carolina

Metro AreaLevel ILevel IVAverage
Southern South Carolina$87,630$134,139$118,789
Charleston-North Charleston$88,171$133,806$118,747
Northeastern South Carolina$86,778$134,243$118,581
Florence$88,109$132,891$118,123
Greenville-Anderson-Greer$88,109$132,891$118,123

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average computer & information research scientist salary in Columbia?

The average computer & information research scientist salary in Columbia is $118,123 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Columbia at rank #367 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.

What do entry-level computer & information research scientists earn in Columbia?

Entry-level computer & information research scientists (Level I) in Columbia earn $82,098 per year. Level II (early career) earns $100,027, reflecting growing independence and experience.

How does Columbia compare to the national average for computer & information research scientist salaries?

Columbia ranks #367 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer & information research scientist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $7,235 below the national average. The national average computer & information research scientist salary is $137,605, while Columbia workers average $118,123 — a difference of -14% 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: 15-1221.