Clemson vs Columbia: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Clemson, SC and Columbia, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Clemson, SC | Columbia, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $56,640 | $60,638▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $27.23 | $29.15▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $45,595 | $48,642▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $52,750▲ | $51,207 |
| 75th Percentile | $70,903▲ | $63,264 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $87,792▲ | $76,755 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 4,360▲ |
Verdict
Columbia, SC offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Clemson.
The salary gap between Clemson and Columbia is $3,998 (7.06%). Columbia's median is -6.13% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Clemson spans $42,197,Columbia spans $28,113. Clemson has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Columbia ($64,741 effective) pays 4.59% more than Clemson ($61,902 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Clemson if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($87,792)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($60,638/year)
- ✓Larger job market (4,360 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $64,741)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Clemson grew 14.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 4.7% growth in Columbia over the same period.
Clemson, SC
$48,870 (2024) → $56,090 (2025)
Columbia, SC
$57,360 (2019) → $60,050 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Clemson, SC
Columbia, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Clemson or Columbia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Clemson and Columbia?
Should I relocate from Clemson to Columbia as a elementary school teacher?
What do entry-level elementary school teachers earn in Clemson vs Columbia?
Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov