Purchasing Agent Salary in Columbia
Purchases goods and services for organizations, negotiating with vendors to get the best value.
Columbia ranks #329 of 530 U.S. metro areas for purchasing agent pay. Entry-level salaries here are $5,441 below the national average.
Columbia vs National Average
| Level | This Metro | National Avg | Difference | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level I (Entry) | $41,246 | $46,687 | $-5,441 | -11.7% |
| Level II | $55,307 | $59,544 | $-4,237 | -7.1% |
| Level III (Mid) | $69,368 | $72,403 | $-3,035 | -4.2% |
| Level IV (Senior) | $83,429 | $85,260 | $-1,831 | -2.1% |
Other metros in Missouri
| Metro Area | Level I | Level IV | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Springfield | $38,397 | $73,486 | $61,901 |
| Central Missouri | $39,166 | $73,050 | $61,880 |
| Jefferson City | $32,760 | $70,075 | $57,762 |
| Southeast Missouri | $32,469 | $69,950 | $57,574 |
| Southwest Missouri | $34,299 | $68,307 | $57,075 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average purchasing agent salary in Columbia?
The average purchasing agent salary in Columbia is $69,514 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Columbia at rank #329 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.
What do entry-level purchasing agents earn in Columbia?
Entry-level purchasing agents (Level I) in Columbia earn $41,246 per year. Level II (early career) earns $55,307, reflecting growing independence and experience.
How does Columbia compare to the national average for purchasing agent salaries?
Columbia ranks #329 of 530 U.S. metro areas for purchasing agent pay. Entry-level salaries here are $5,441 below the national average. The national average purchasing agent salary is $72,531, while Columbia workers average $69,514 — a difference of -4% 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: 13-1023.