Purchasing Agent Salary in Columbia
Purchases goods and services for organizations, negotiating with vendors to get the best value.
Columbia ranks #154 of 530 U.S. metro areas for purchasing agent pay. Entry-level salaries here are $1,236 above the national average.
Columbia vs National Average
| Level | This Metro | National Avg | Difference | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level I (Entry) | $47,923 | $46,687 | +$1,236 | +2.6% |
| Level II | $62,088 | $59,544 | +$2,544 | +4.3% |
| Level III (Mid) | $76,274 | $72,403 | +$3,871 | +5.3% |
| Level IV (Senior) | $90,438 | $85,260 | +$5,178 | +6.1% |
Other metros in South Carolina
| Metro Area | Level I | Level IV | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charleston-North Charleston | $52,187 | $105,435 | $87,859 |
| Greenville-Anderson-Greer | $50,149 | $95,160 | $80,309 |
| Northwestern South Carolina | $48,818 | $94,702 | $79,560 |
| Sumter | $45,136 | $95,181 | $78,666 |
| Spartanburg | $47,944 | $93,475 | $78,458 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average purchasing agent salary in Columbia?
The average purchasing agent salary in Columbia is $76,398 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Columbia at rank #154 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 $47,923 per year. Level II (early career) earns $62,088, reflecting growing independence and experience.
How does Columbia compare to the national average for purchasing agent salaries?
Columbia ranks #154 of 530 U.S. metro areas for purchasing agent pay. Entry-level salaries here are $1,236 above the national average. The national average purchasing agent salary is $72,531, while Columbia workers average $76,398 — a difference of +5% 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.