Columbia vs Summerville: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Columbia, SC and Summerville, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, SC | Summerville, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $137,186▲ | $127,152 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.95▲ | $61.13 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,820▲ | $75,558 |
| 25th Percentile | $107,291▲ | $100,693 |
| 75th Percentile | $174,153▲ | $162,755 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $232,390▲ | $197,086 |
| Total Employed | 210▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Columbia, SC offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Summerville.
The salary gap between Columbia and Summerville is $10,034 (7.89%). Columbia's median is -0.11% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $150,570,Summerville spans $121,528. Columbia 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 ($146,469 effective) pays 5.40% more than Summerville ($138,964 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($137,186/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($232,390)
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $146,469)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Summerville if…
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Columbia grew 15.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 24.5% growth in Summerville over the same period.
Columbia, SC
$112,640 (2019) → $129,960 (2025)
Summerville, SC
$96,756 (2024) → $120,455 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Summerville, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Columbia or Summerville?
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Written by Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM
Career Analyst
Dr. Alice Nguyen has 10 years of experience in veterinary medicine. She specializes in small animal surgery. She currently works at a suburban veterinary clinic.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.56% 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 Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM, a licensed veterinarian with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov