Are South Carolina’s construction salaries keeping pace with its pipeline?
From billion-dollar data centers to downtown redevelopments and major highway projects, the state’s building boom shows all systems go. But as investment grows, so does the pressure to find and keep the right people to deliver it.
The Amundson Group Salary Guide offers a state-by-state look at real compensation in construction, helping employers stay competitive and professionals understand their true market value.
This is the fourth blog in our regional salary guide series, following insights from Texas, Florida, and North Carolina.
South Carolina Construction Market Trends 2025
We’re seeing steady population growth, major infrastructure upgrades, and a rising reputation in technology and data.
Commercial & Multifamily
South Carolina’s commercial sector is thriving, led by a wave of mixed-use developments that combine residential, retail, and recreation. The $425 million Fifth Third Ballpark project in downtown Columbia, reported by Ballpark Digest, shows how developers are creating long-term, community-driven spaces designed for growth well beyond 2030.
The tech sector is also reshaping the construction landscape. Alphabet (Google) is investing $3.3 billion in two new data centers in Dorchester County and expanding its Berkeley County campus (Reuters).
These projects are bringing high-paying technical and construction jobs. This is good news for project leaders and estimators with cross-sector experience and a signal for hiring teams to adjust their salary benchmarks.
Heavy Civil & Site Development
With $2.08 billion in state investment, the Carolina Crossroads Project is one of the largest in the Southeast.
Along the coast, Charleston’s population has grown by 50% since 2000 (Charleston Regional Business Journal), driving site development at record speed. Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas are following suit, while Upstate South Carolina continues recovery and rebuild efforts post-Hurricane Helene.
Foremen, supers, and PMs who can coordinate multi-year projects are now the most sought-after hires in the state.
South Carolina Construction Salaries 2025: By Role and Experience
A preview of our data shows competitive, steady pay growth across all project types.
- Chief Estimator: $120k–$130k (4–6 yrs) | $150k (7+ yrs)
- Senior Superintendent: $110k–$130k (4–6 yrs) | $150k (7+ yrs)
- Project Manager: $110k–$125k (4–6 yrs) | $140k (7+ yrs)
These ranges reflect a balanced economy where strong civil infrastructure and commercial investment create steady demand without extreme pay volatility.
Looking Ahead
South Carolina’s construction market is only getting more complex and more competitive.
That means companies should work at fine-tuning pay to attract the right people before competitors do. For professionals, it’s knowing when to move and how to negotiate from a position of value.
The 2025 Amundson Group Salary Guide offers that clarity. It’s your reference point for smarter hiring, stronger retention, and better career decisions.
Download the latest Salary Guide or Get in touch to find your next great hire.
