Anderson vs Columbia: Flight Attendant Salary (2026)
Compare flight attendant salaries between Anderson, SC and Columbia, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Anderson, SC | Columbia, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $59,927 | $61,964▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $28.81 | $29.79▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $34,757 | $35,939▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $49,105▲ | $48,990 |
| 75th Percentile | $76,706 | $79,313▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $92,887 | $96,044▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 29▲ |
Verdict
Columbia, SC offers better overall compensation for flight attendants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Anderson.
The salary gap between Anderson and Columbia is $2,037 (3.40%). Columbia's median is -3.97% compared to the US national median of $64,527.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Anderson spans $58,130,Columbia spans $60,105. Columbia has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced flight attendants.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Columbia ($67,720 effective) pays 3.40% more than Anderson ($65,494 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Anderson if…
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($61,964/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($96,044)
- ✓Larger job market (29 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,720)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, flight attendant salaries in Anderson grew 18.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 18.2% growth in Columbia over the same period.
Anderson, SC
$49,942 (2024) → $59,047 (2025)
Columbia, SC
$51,639 (2024) → $61,054 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Anderson, SC
Columbia, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays flight attendants more: Anderson or Columbia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Anderson and Columbia?
Should I relocate from Anderson to Columbia as a flight attendant?
What do entry-level flight attendants earn in Anderson vs Columbia?
Written by Emily Johnson, AFA-CWA
Career Analyst
Emily Johnson has 10 years of experience as a flight attendant. She specializes in passenger safety and service. She has worked for major airlines in the United States.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 1.49% 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 Emily Johnson, AFA-CWA, a licensed flight attendant with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov