Columbia vs Myrtle Beach: Insurance Agent Salary (2026)
Compare insurance agent salaries between Columbia, SC and Myrtle Beach, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, SC | Myrtle Beach, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $76,768▲ | $48,640 |
| Hourly Rate | $36.91▲ | $23.38 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $36,996 | $37,337▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $49,034▲ | $37,804 |
| 75th Percentile | $107,247▲ | $75,379 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $180,917▲ | $125,501 |
| Total Employed | 1,540▲ | 540 |
Verdict
Columbia, SC offers better overall compensation for insurance agents, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Myrtle Beach.
The salary gap between Columbia and Myrtle Beach is $28,128 (57.83%). Columbia's median is +18.98% compared to the US national median of $64,522.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $143,921,Myrtle Beach spans $88,164. 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 ($81,963 effective) pays 57.80% more than Myrtle Beach ($51,943 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 ($76,768/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($180,917)
- ✓Larger job market (1,540 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $81,963)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Myrtle Beach if…
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, insurance agent salaries in Columbia grew 57.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -6.6% growth in Myrtle Beach over the same period.
Columbia, SC
$46,920 (2019) → $74,100 (2025)
Myrtle Beach, SC
$50,280 (2019) → $46,950 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Myrtle Beach, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays insurance agents more: Columbia or Myrtle Beach?
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Written by Jordan Lee, MBA
Career Analyst
Jordan has over 10 years of experience in the insurance industry. He specializes in property and casualty insurance. He has worked in both agency and corporate settings.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.60% 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, MBA, a licensed insurance agent with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov