Purchasing Agent Salary in South Carolina
Based on 6K+ workers in South Carolina
Median Annual Salary (SC)
$75,550
$36.32/hr
vs National Average
$76,869
-1.7% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$46K – $123K
6K employed in South Carolina
The median Purchasing Agent salary in South Carolina is $75,550 per year, which translates to approximately $36 per hour. This median figure is slightly lower than the national average by about 1.7%. With 6,150 individuals employed in this role across the state, it represents a significant occupational field.
Several factors can influence the Purchasing Agent salary in South Carolina. Experience level is a major determinant, with entry-level positions typically falling closer to the $45,700 end of the spectrum, while seasoned professionals can earn up to $123,340 annually. Location within South Carolina and the size and industry of the employing company also play a crucial role in compensation.
Salary Distribution — Purchasing Agent in South Carolina
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $45,700 |
| 25th percentile | $58,430 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $75,550 |
| 75th percentile | $98,230 |
| 90th percentile | $123,340 |
Top-Paying Industries for Purchasing Agent (U.S.)
Which industries pay Purchasing Agents the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Purchasing Agents in South Carolina tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | $99,240 | 4K |
| Finance and Insurance | $98,000 | 9K |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $95,870 | 64K |
| Information | $93,980 | 7K |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $88,830 | 40K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Purchasing Agent in South Carolina vs National
| Year | Median Salary (South Carolina) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $75,550 |
| 2026 (projected) | $77,817 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | South Carolina Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $75,550 | $76,869 |
| 2026 (projected) | $77,817 | $79,175 |
Purchasing Agent Salary by Experience Level in South Carolina
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $58,430 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $75,550 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $98,230 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $123,340 |
Purchasing Agent Salary in Other States
Related Purchasing Agent Salaries in South Carolina
How other high-demand occupations in South Carolina compare to Purchasing Agent ($75,550 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Purchasing Agent | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Logistician in SC | $80,330 | +6.3% | $38.62/hr |
| Market Research Analyst in SC | $69,440 | -8.1% | $33.38/hr |
| Training and Development Specialist in SC | $63,070 | -16.5% | $30.32/hr |
| Public Relations Specialist in SC | $62,730 | -17.0% | $30.16/hr |
| Editor in SC | $62,000 | -17.9% | $29.81/hr |
| Real Estate Sales Agent in SC | $56,580 | -25.1% | $27.20/hr |
| Writer and Author in SC | $51,920 | -31.3% | $24.96/hr |
| Compliance Officer in SC | $75,460 | -0.1% | $36.28/hr |
| Construction Supervisor in SC | $75,350 | -0.3% | $36.23/hr |
| Urban and Regional Planner in SC | $75,810 | +0.3% | $36.45/hr |
| Environmental Scientist in SC | $74,910 | -0.8% | $36.01/hr |
| Tax Examiner in SC | $76,400 | +1.1% | $36.73/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Purchasing Agent in South Carolina?
- The salary range for a Purchasing Agent in South Carolina generally falls between $45,700 and $123,340 per year. The median salary sits comfortably in the middle at $75,550 annually.
How does the Purchasing Agent salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
- The Purchasing Agent salary in South Carolina is approximately 1.7% lower than the national average. While the median national salary isn't provided, this indicates slightly less earning potential on average within the state.
What is the hourly rate for a Purchasing Agent in South Carolina?
- For a Purchasing Agent in South Carolina earning the median annual salary of $75,550, the equivalent hourly rate is about $36 per hour. This is a good benchmark for understanding day-to-day compensation.
How many Purchasing Agents are employed in South Carolina?
- There are an estimated 6,150 Purchasing Agents currently employed in South Carolina. This number reflects the demand for professionals in procurement and supply chain roles within the state.