How Accountant / CPAs in South Carolina get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical South Carolina compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $54,100 | $41,000 | $70,300 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $67,200 | $51,000 | $87,400 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $77,300 | $58,700 | $100,500 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $92,700 | $70,400 | $120,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $105,100 | $79,800 | $136,600 |
Top occupations by median pay in South Carolina — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in South Carolina
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Accountant / CPA salary in South Carolina is $77,300 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $58,700 and the 75th at $100,500.
Pay-wise, South Carolina sits -12% below the national Accountant / CPA median ($87,800). Wages run below the national median, but cost of living is often correspondingly lower; net purchasing power may be similar to higher-paying states.
Senior Accountant / CPAs (10–14 years of experience) in South Carolina earn around $92,700 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $105,100 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), South Carolina ranks 36th for Accountant / CPA pay. The highest-paying state pays around $114,200 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
Get my personal salary report →