Columbia vs Sumter: Dialysis Technician Salary (2026)
Compare dialysis technician salaries between Columbia, SC and Sumter, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, SC | Sumter, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $39,734▲ | $36,255 |
| Hourly Rate | $19.11▲ | $17.43 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $34,056▲ | $30,750 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,453▲ | $32,353 |
| 75th Percentile | $44,989▲ | $38,401 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $58,894▲ | $42,366 |
| Total Employed | 450▲ | 110 |
Verdict
Columbia, SC offers better overall compensation for dialysis technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Sumter.
The salary gap between Columbia and Sumter is $3,479 (9.60%). Columbia's median is -12.33% compared to the US national median of $45,322.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $24,838,Sumter spans $11,616. 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 ($42,423 effective) pays 2.99% more than Sumter ($41,190 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 ($39,734/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($58,894)
- ✓Larger job market (450 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $42,423)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Sumter if…
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dialysis technician salaries in Columbia grew 6.5% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -2.4% growth in Sumter over the same period.
Columbia, SC
$36,430 (2021) → $38,799 (2025)
Sumter, SC
$36,260 (2023) → $35,402 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Sumter, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dialysis technicians more: Columbia or Sumter?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbia and Sumter?
Should I relocate from Columbia to Sumter as a dialysis technician?
What do entry-level dialysis technicians earn in Columbia vs Sumter?
Written by Jessica Tran, CCRN
Career Analyst
Jessica has over 10 years as a dialysis technician. She specializes in chronic kidney disease management. She works at a community hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.41% 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 Jessica Tran, CCRN, a licensed dialysis technician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov