Salaries in Florence, SC
What every job actually pays — cost-of-living adjusted
Updated: February 2026 · 27 occupations · BLS + Census data
You might be surprised to learn that Florence, South Carolina, is one of the few mid-sized cities in the South where a software developer’s paycheck stretches further than in Raleigh or Atlanta. With a cost of living index of just 88, you’re not just saving on rent—you’re buying real financial breathing room.
Let’s talk purchasing power. The median household income here is $56,433, which sounds modest, but that 88 index means your dollar goes about 12% further than the national average. A one-bedroom apartment runs you $792 a month, and with unemployment at a tight 3.2%, the local economy is humming. You’re not getting squeezed, which is a rare feeling in 2026.
So who’s winning here? The top earners are in marketing, pharmacy, and software—fields that often support the city’s healthcare and manufacturing backbone. McLeod Health is a titan here, and you’ve got a steady demand for project and construction managers tied to regional infrastructure. The catch? Only about 30% of folks have a bachelor’s degree, so if you’re in that bucket, you’ll find your skills are in shorter supply and higher demand.
Here’s my honest take: wages are holding their own against cost increases, but don’t expect big-city bonuses. This is a place for steady, sustainable living, not a get-rich-quick scheme. It works beautifully for remote tech workers or healthcare professionals.
The data below breaks down what you can actually expect to earn and spend.
🏆 Top 5 Highest-Paying Jobs in Florence
Ranked by raw salary. See COL-adjusted figures in the full table below.
Marketing Manager
Pharmacist
Software Developer
Construction Manager
Project Manager
📋 Complete Salary Guide — All 27 Occupations in Florence
COL-Adjusted Salary = Raw salary divided by the cost of living index (88/100). Higher = more real purchasing power. This city's COL is below the US average.
| # | Occupation ↕ | Raw Salary ↕ |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marketing Manager | $151,945 |
| 2 | Pharmacist | $131,132 |
| 3 | Software Developer | $122,678 |
| 4 | Construction Manager | $104,314 |
| 5 | Project Manager | $97,633 |
| 6 | Physical Therapist | $96,120 |
| 7 | Financial Analyst | $95,445 |
| 8 | Web Developer | $89,411 |
| 9 | Dental Hygienist | $84,378 |
| 10 | Accountant | $82,981 |
| 11 | Registered Nurse | $82,971 |
| 12 | Data Analyst | $80,359 |
| 13 | Police Officer | $72,213 |
| 14 | Human Resources Specialist | $65,214 |
| 15 | Elementary School Teacher | $61,377 |
| 16 | Plumber | $61,069 |
| 17 | Paralegal | $60,491 |
| 18 | Electrician | $59,334 |
| 19 | Real Estate Agent | $59,266 |
| 20 | Graphic Designer | $59,131 |
| 21 | Firefighter | $55,063 |
| 22 | Carpenter | $54,870 |
| 23 | HVAC Technician | $53,665 |
| 24 | Heavy Truck Driver | $51,178 |
| 25 | Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $48,200 |
| 26 | Welder | $47,804 |
| 27 | Medical Assistant | $36,892 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics. COL Index from C2ER/ACCRA.
🏙️ Living Costs in Florence
🧮 Can You Afford to Live in Florence?
Use our Salary Reality Check to see if your specific income covers housing, taxes, and expenses in Florence. Enter your salary and see exactly how far your money goes.
❓ Florence Salary FAQ
What is the average salary in Florence, SC?
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📝 Editor's Verdict: Is Florence Worth It?
Here’s my no-nonsense take: Florence, SC is a smart financial move in 2026. The average salary is $76,486, but with the cost of living index at 88.0, your money stretches further—especially with rent averaging just $792/month. The Marketing Manager role shines here, both as the highest pay ($151,945) and the best value after adjusting for costs ($172,665).
Who wins here? Healthcare and trades workers will thrive, given steady demand and lower living costs. Tech professionals might find opportunities but fewer specialized roles compared to bigger cities.
Is it worth it? For most, absolutely—especially if you’re looking to own a home or save aggressively. Just don’t expect a bustling tech scene or endless nightlife.
My advice: If you’re moving here for work, lock in a job before you relocate. The market’s stable, but opportunities aren’t as fluid as in larger metros. Come in with a plan, and Florence can be a hidden gem.