Anderson vs Charleston: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Anderson, SC and Charleston, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Anderson, SC | Charleston, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $62,688▲ | $61,618 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.14▲ | $29.63 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $48,490 | $49,622▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $56,973 | $59,709▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $77,880▲ | $77,694 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $97,167▲ | $79,643 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 4,670▲ |
Verdict
Anderson, SC offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Charleston.
The salary gap between Anderson and Charleston is $1,070 (1.74%). Anderson's median is -2.96% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Anderson spans $48,677,Charleston spans $30,021. Anderson 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, Anderson ($68,511 effective) pays 12.26% more than Charleston ($61,031 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Anderson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($62,688/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($97,167)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $68,511)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Charleston if…
- ✓Larger job market (4,670 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Anderson grew 17.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 19.3% growth in Charleston over the same period.
Anderson, SC
$52,666 (2024) → $62,080 (2025)
Charleston, SC
$51,130 (2019) → $61,020 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Anderson, SC
Charleston, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Anderson or Charleston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Anderson and Charleston?
Should I relocate from Anderson to Charleston as a elementary school teacher?
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Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% 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, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov