Charleston, South Carolina, has evolved into one of the Southeast’s most dynamic economies, balancing its historic charm with strong growth in healthcare, technology, and advanced manufacturing. The city’s thriving port, proximity to aerospace giants like Boeing, and expanding healthcare systems create lucrative career opportunities.

From high-level medical professionals to executives and engineers, Charleston’s job market rewards skill, education, and experience with impressive earning potential across a diverse range of industries.

Top 100 Highest-Paying Jobs in Charleston, South Carolina

1. Anesthesiologist

Anesthesiologists are the highest earners in Charleston, ensuring patient safety during surgeries and complex procedures. They administer anesthesia, monitor vital signs, and manage pain post-operation. Their work demands precision, long hours, and years of medical training. With Charleston’s strong healthcare network — including MUSC Health and Roper St. Francis — skilled anesthesiologists are in high demand. Annual salaries range from $360,000 to $550,000, reflecting both their expertise and critical role in patient outcomes.

2. Surgeon

Surgeons perform life-saving operations, from trauma procedures to organ transplants. In Charleston’s major hospitals, they play an indispensable role in emergency and elective care. Years of medical school, surgical residency, and board certification lead to exceptional pay — between $340,000 and $500,000 annually. The city’s growing population and aging demographics increase demand for specialized surgeons, particularly in cardiovascular, orthopedic, and neurological fields, making this profession both lucrative and vital to community health.

3. Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders through therapy and medication. In Charleston, rising awareness of mental health has expanded opportunities in hospitals, private practices, and telehealth. Their work often combines counseling, diagnosis, and long-term patient management. Extensive education — medical school plus psychiatric residency — justifies annual earnings of $270,000 to $410,000. Many psychiatrists here also consult for schools, law enforcement, and rehabilitation programs, addressing the region’s growing mental health needs.

4. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

CEOs oversee overall operations, strategy, and profitability across Charleston’s major corporations, including firms in logistics, technology, and hospitality. Their leadership directly impacts company performance, innovation, and market growth. Most CEOs have advanced degrees and decades of experience guiding large teams. Compensation packages often include bonuses, profit sharing, and stock options, pushing total annual pay between $250,000 and $400,000. As Charleston’s economy diversifies, top executives with visionary leadership continue to command premium salaries.

5. Physician (General)

General physicians provide primary care, diagnosing and treating common illnesses, managing chronic diseases, and coordinating specialist referrals. In Charleston, they serve as the first point of contact in the region’s growing healthcare system. With demand for accessible medical care increasing, physicians enjoy stable and rewarding careers. Annual compensation averages $240,000 to $370,000, depending on experience and specialization. Many work in family practices or outpatient clinics, offering comprehensive care that strengthens community health outcomes.

6. Orthodontist

Orthodontists specialize in correcting teeth alignment and jaw irregularities. Charleston’s expanding suburban population fuels consistent demand for orthodontic care, especially among families and teens. Using advanced imaging and braces technology, they enhance both dental function and aesthetics. Years of dental school and orthodontic residency precede this role, leading to earnings between $210,000 and $320,000 per year. Many operate private clinics, enjoying flexible hours, steady clientele, and high professional autonomy within the city’s healthcare landscape.

7. Dentist

Dentists maintain oral health through cleanings, fillings, root canals, and preventive care. In Charleston, where dental tourism and cosmetic dentistry are growing, skilled practitioners can earn between $165,000 and $260,000 annually. Most dentists operate private practices or group clinics, balancing clinical precision with business management. Their work improves patient confidence and overall health, as oral diseases are closely linked to systemic conditions. Advanced certifications in prosthodontics or implantology can further increase income potential.

8. Law Firm Partner

Law firm partners manage high-value clients, oversee junior attorneys, and handle complex legal cases across sectors like corporate law, real estate, and maritime regulation. In Charleston’s expanding economy, experienced partners command between $160,000 and $300,000+ annually. Their earnings depend heavily on billable hours and firm profitability. Charleston’s blend of historic preservation, coastal development, and business growth ensures strong demand for legal expertise, making partnership one of the most prestigious local career achievements.

9. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

CFOs guide companies’ financial planning, investments, and risk management. They ensure stability, compliance, and profitability in sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and real estate. In Charleston’s evolving business environment, experienced CFOs earn $155,000 to $280,000 per year. Their leadership influences major corporate decisions, mergers, and growth strategies. Most hold MBAs or CPA certifications and have decades of finance experience, making this one of the city’s most strategic and respected executive roles.

10. Pediatrician

Pediatricians specialize in children’s healthcare — from infancy through adolescence — diagnosing illnesses, managing growth milestones, and advising families. In Charleston, where family-focused communities are expanding, pediatricians are essential. They typically earn $150,000 to $240,000 annually, depending on specialization and setting. Many work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices. Their compassionate care and preventive focus play a vital role in maintaining the health and happiness of the region’s youngest residents.

11. Podiatrist

Podiatrists diagnose and treat conditions of the feet and lower limbs. In Charleston’s active coastal community, they are in demand among athletes, seniors, and workers in physical trades. Their work involves surgery, orthotics, and preventive care. Podiatrists typically earn $145,000 to $230,000 annually, reflecting years of specialized education and licensing. Many operate private clinics or collaborate with orthopedic and sports medicine teams, helping residents stay mobile and healthy year-round.

12. Vice President of Sales

VPs of Sales drive revenue through strategic planning, customer relationships, and team leadership. In Charleston’s fast-growing logistics, technology, and tourism industries, these professionals are indispensable. They manage sales pipelines, negotiate major contracts, and motivate regional sales forces. With extensive experience and performance bonuses, they earn $140,000 to $230,000 annually. Their results directly influence company profitability, making this role one of the highest-impact and most rewarding in the city’s corporate sector.

13. Chief Medical Officer

Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) oversee hospital operations, ensuring high standards of patient care and clinical performance. They manage medical staff, implement policies, and balance budgets. In Charleston’s major healthcare systems, CMOs earn between $135,000 and $220,000 annually. This role demands medical expertise combined with administrative leadership. Many CMOs are physicians who transitioned into executive management, ensuring that hospitals maintain quality outcomes while adapting to technological and regulatory changes in modern healthcare.

14. Pharmacist

Pharmacists dispense medications, advise on drug interactions, and support safe prescription use. In Charleston, they serve hospitals, retail pharmacies, and long-term care facilities. With healthcare accessibility expanding, pharmacists play an increasingly crucial role in public health education and chronic disease management. Salaries average $125,000 to $160,000 annually. The role requires a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and state licensure, offering both stability and respect within the region’s healthcare community.

15. Software Engineering Manager

Software Engineering Managers lead development teams that design and maintain applications for companies in finance, logistics, and e-commerce. Charleston’s growing tech scene — part of the “Silicon Harbor” movement — offers high demand and excellent pay. With strong technical and leadership skills, managers earn $125,000 to $195,000 annually. They oversee coding standards, timelines, and innovation, making this role critical to companies competing in today’s digital economy.

16. Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists administer anesthesia and monitor patients during surgery. In Charleston’s busy hospitals and surgical centers, their expertise is invaluable. CRNAs earn $120,000 to $190,000 annually. The role requires a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing and advanced certification. Their ability to work independently under physicians makes them essential to surgical teams, especially in rural or high-volume medical environments.

17. Vice President of Marketing

Marketing VPs oversee brand strategy, advertising, and customer engagement. In Charleston’s competitive tourism and hospitality sectors, they help companies stand out in a thriving economy. They develop creative campaigns, manage teams, and analyze performance metrics. With strong results, total compensation reaches $120,000 to $190,000 annually, including bonuses. Their blend of creativity and analytics drives both brand growth and market share for major regional businesses.

18. IT Director

IT Directors manage technology systems, cybersecurity, and network infrastructure. In Charleston, they play vital roles across industries like aerospace, healthcare, and education. Their leadership ensures data security, system efficiency, and digital innovation. Salaries typically range from $115,000 to $185,000. The position demands technical expertise, strategic thinking, and up-to-date knowledge of emerging technologies, making it one of the most stable and future-focused career paths in the city.

19. Data Science Manager

Data Science Managers turn complex data into actionable insights for businesses in finance, logistics, and healthcare. They lead teams of analysts and engineers, building predictive models that inform high-level strategy. Charleston’s growing technology and manufacturing sectors increasingly rely on their expertise. With annual earnings between $115,000 and $180,000, they occupy a critical intersection of technology and decision-making — shaping the competitive future of local industries.

20. Engineering Manager

Engineering Managers oversee teams that design, build, and optimize infrastructure, products, and systems. In Charleston’s expanding aerospace and construction industries, their leadership ensures precision, safety, and innovation. They balance technical oversight with project management, earning between $115,000 and $180,000 annually. Many hold advanced degrees and professional engineering licenses, combining practical problem-solving with organizational strategy to keep the region’s industries running efficiently and competitively.

No.	Job Title	Estimated Annual Salary Range (USD)
1	Anesthesiologist	$360,000 – $550,000
2	Surgeon	$340,000 – $500,000
3	Psychiatrist	$270,000 – $410,000
4	Chief Executive Officer (CEO)	$250,000 – $400,000
5	Physician (General)	$240,000 – $370,000
6	Orthodontist	$210,000 – $320,000
7	Dentist	$165,000 – $260,000
8	Law Firm Partner	$160,000 – $300,000+
9	Chief Financial Officer (CFO)	$155,000 – $280,000
10	Pediatrician	$150,000 – $240,000
11	Podiatrist	$145,000 – $230,000
12	Vice President of Sales	$140,000 – $230,000
13	Chief Medical Officer	$135,000 – $220,000
14	Pharmacist	$125,000 – $160,000
15	Software Engineering Manager	$125,000 – $195,000
16	Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)	$120,000 – $190,000
17	Vice President of Marketing	$120,000 – $190,000
18	IT Director	$115,000 – $185,000
19	Data Science Manager	$115,000 – $180,000
20	Engineering Manager	$115,000 – $180,000
21	Optometrist	$110,000 – $175,000
22	Chief Information Officer (CIO)	$110,000 – $175,000
23	Vice President of Operations	$110,000 – $170,000
24	Physician Assistant (PA)	$105,000 – $150,000
25	Nurse Practitioner (NP)	$100,000 – $145,000
26	Senior Software Engineer	$100,000 – $145,000
27	Financial Manager	$95,000 – $150,000
28	Supply Chain Director	$95,000 – $150,000
29	Construction Manager (Large Projects)	$95,000 – $145,000
30	Aerospace Engineer (Senior)	$95,000 – $140,000
31	Management Consultant	$90,000 – $140,000
32	Civil Engineer (Project Manager)	$90,000 – $135,000
33	Physical Therapist	$85,000 – $115,000
34	Airline Pilot (Captain)	$85,000 – $180,000
35	Architect (Principal)	$85,000 – $130,000
36	Marketing Director	$85,000 – $130,000
37	Human Resources Director	$85,000 – $130,000
38	Compensation and Benefits Manager	$85,000 – $125,000
39	Database Architect	$85,000 – $125,000
40	Actuary (Fellow)	$85,000 – $125,000
41	Cybersecurity Engineer	$85,000 – $125,000
42	Mechanical Engineer (Senior)	$85,000 – $120,000
43	Electrical Engineer (Senior)	$85,000 – $120,000
44	Sales Director	$85,000 – $120,000
45	Project Manager (IT)	$80,000 – $120,000
46	Commercial Real Estate Developer	$80,000 – $150,000+
47	Financial Advisor (Senior)	$80,000 – $120,000
48	University Professor (Senior)	$80,000 – $120,000
49	Airline Pilot (First Officer)	$75,000 – $120,000
50	Nurse Manager	$75,000 – $110,000
51	Marine Engineer / Naval Architect	$75,000 – $110,000
52	Logistics Manager	$75,000 – $110,000
53	Procurement Manager	$75,000 – $110,000
54	Dental Hygienist	$75,000 – $100,000
55	Solutions Architect	$75,000 – $115,000
56	Data Engineer	$75,000 – $110,000
57	Cloud Engineer	$75,000 – $110,000
58	Commercial Loan Officer	$75,000 – $105,000
59	Physician (Resident)	$55,000 – $65,000
60	Software Developer	$70,000 – $105,000
61	Physical Therapist (Staff)	$70,000 – $95,000
62	Occupational Therapist	$70,000 – $95,000
63	Accountant (CPA, Senior)	$70,000 – $95,000
64	High School Teacher	$50,000 – $60,000
65	Police Officer	$45,000 – $60,000
66	Firefighter	$45,000 – $60,000
67	Paralegal	$45,000 – $60,000
68	Electrician	$45,000 – $65,000
69	Plumber	$45,000 – $65,000
70	HVAC Technician	$45,000 – $65,000
71	Web Developer	$60,000 – $90,000
72	Marketing Manager	$65,000 – $95,000
73	Sales Manager	$65,000 – $95,000
74	Financial Analyst	$60,000 – $85,000
75	Operations Manager	$60,000 – $85,000
76	Construction Superintendent	$60,000 – $85,000
77	Project Manager (Construction)	$65,000 – $95,000
78	Civil Engineer (Entry-Mid)	$60,000 – $80,000
79	Mechanical Engineer (Entry-Mid)	$60,000 – $80,000
80	Electrical Engineer (Entry-Mid)	$60,000 – $80,000
81	Aerospace Engineer (Entry-Mid)	$65,000 – $85,000
82	Data Analyst	$55,000 – $75,000
83	Registered Nurse (Staff)	$55,000 – $75,000
84	Librarian	$50,000 – $65,000
85	Social Worker (Licensed)	$45,000 – $60,000
86	Chef / Head Cook	$45,000 – $65,000
87	Restaurant Manager	$45,000 – $60,000
88	Hotel Manager	$50,000 – $70,000
89	Real Estate Agent (Residential)	$40,000 – $100,000+
90	Insurance Agent	$45,000 – $70,000
91	Loan Officer	$45,000 – $65,000
92	Claims Adjuster	$45,000 – $60,000
93	Customer Success Manager	$50,000 – $70,000
94	Technical Writer	$50,000 – $70,000
95	Graphic Designer	$45,000 – $60,000
96	Administrative Services Manager	$55,000 – $75,000
97	Cost Estimator	$55,000 – $75,000
98	Market Research Analyst	$50,000 – $70,000
99	Human Resources Specialist	$45,000 – $60,000
100	Speech-Language Pathologist	$60,000 – $85,000

Closing

As Charleston continues to grow in both population and industry strength, the city remains one of the most attractive professional hubs in the Southeast. High-paying opportunities abound for those with advanced education, technical expertise, or leadership skills. Whether in healthcare, finance, or technology, Charleston’s economy offers room for both stability and upward mobility—making it a top destination for ambitious professionals seeking rewarding and prosperous careers.