Cost Estimator Salary in Columbia
Collects and analyzes data to estimate the time, materials, and costs required for a project.
Columbia ranks #423 of 530 U.S. metro areas for cost estimator pay. Entry-level salaries here are $1,805 below the national average.
Columbia vs National Average
| Level | This Metro | National Avg | Difference | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level I (Entry) | $46,405 | $48,210 | $-1,805 | -3.7% |
| Level II | $57,741 | $61,900 | $-4,159 | -6.7% |
| Level III (Mid) | $69,077 | $75,591 | $-6,514 | -8.6% |
| Level IV (Senior) | $80,413 | $89,282 | $-8,869 | -9.9% |
Other metros in South Carolina
| Metro Area | Level I | Level IV | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charleston-North Charleston | $49,546 | $87,859 | $75,213 |
| Spartanburg | $49,192 | $86,216 | $74,006 |
| Greenville-Anderson-Greer | $52,541 | $83,034 | $72,966 |
| Hilton Head Island-Bluffton-Port Royal | $44,034 | $86,258 | $72,322 |
| Northwestern South Carolina | $43,264 | $84,843 | $71,115 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost estimator salary in Columbia?
The average cost estimator salary in Columbia is $69,202 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Columbia at rank #423 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.
What do entry-level cost estimators earn in Columbia?
Entry-level cost estimators (Level I) in Columbia earn $46,405 per year. Level II (early career) earns $57,741, reflecting growing independence and experience.
How does Columbia compare to the national average for cost estimator salaries?
Columbia ranks #423 of 530 U.S. metro areas for cost estimator pay. Entry-level salaries here are $1,805 below the national average. The national average cost estimator salary is $75,728, while Columbia workers average $69,202 — a difference of -9% 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: 13-1051.