Charleston’s Tech Economy Powers Ahead In 2021

In its Annual Wage & Job Growth Survey, the Charleston Digital Corridor is pleased to announce that the average per-capita wage at companies participating in the 2021 survey is $101,710 - a considerable increase from the previous year average of $91,183. This number is more than twice the State of South Carolina's average wage of $46,230 and Charleston Region average wage of $50,810 according to the latest (May 2020) data available from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Key workforce and workspace insights from the 2021 survey:

• 100% of companies reported adding jobs in 2021
• 100% expect to continue hiring into 2022
• 94% of respondents reported moving to a hybrid work model
• 94% of respondents have downsized their office or expect to do so in 2022
• Several companies benefitted from capital infusions in 2021 to fund growth and acquisition

"While the acceleration of a hybrid work model is resulting in a spike of migration of tech talent into our region, many of the recent transplants continue working for companies located elsewhere," said Charleston Digital Corridor Director, Ernest Andrade. "With a high level of business assistance for startup and early-stage tech companies, we expect some of these experienced professionals to start their own ventures or take on roles at local tech companies and contribute to the growth of Charleston's tech community."

The completion of the 92,000 square foot Charleston Tech Center, currently home to fifty-one tech and tech-related companies, has played a key role in supporting the growth of Charleston's tech community. The location in Downtown Charleston, flexible term and lease options along with the building's location in the federally designated Opportunity Zone, has proven attractive to tech companies and investors alike.

"The business resources, amenities and flexibility offered to my company at the Flagship @ the Charleston Tech Center as we grow is exactly what we needed," said Sikes Dorsey, Cloud on Tap, Founder and CEO.

The Charleston Digital Corridor has been conducting an annual wage survey since 2004. Previous results can be see HERE.