Charleston Tech Wages and Jobs Remain Strong in 2024

In its Annual Wage & Job Growth Survey, Charleston Digital is pleased to announce that the per-capita wage at companies participating in the 2024 survey is $120,142. This figure, as in past years, represents well more than double the latest regional and State per-capita wage numbers. According to the latest official data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2023), the State of South Carolina average wage is $54,250 and the Charleston/North Charleston region average is $58,830.

Charleston Digital has conducted its annual wage and job growth survey of its members since 2003. Some key workforce and workplace insights from the 2024 survey are as follows:

• 50% reported adding jobs in 2024
• 71% expect to continue hiring in 2025
• Over 50% of tech employees represented are remote workers
• 93% expect their remote employee count to increase or stay the same in 2025

Of the companies adding jobs in 2024, Ignite Digital Services stands out by adding over 70 employees with plans for further staff expansion in 2025. Several companies participating in the 2024 survey raised significant funds during the year and plan to use a substantial portion of the new capital to hire additional staff in support of product development and market penetration.

"The continued growth of the tech sector wages in Charleston is undeniably strong, but it’s important to remember that it’s not just about technology jobs. This expansion creates ripple effects, driving demand for supporting roles in HR, marketing, and facilities management. Together, these jobs contribute to an overall healthy and diverse job market that benefits the entire Charleston community," said Ignite Digital Services Chief Executive, Marc Murphy.

Tech employment is currently 12.1% of Charleston’s regional economy, having grown at an annual rate of 3.2% over the past 10 years against a national growth rate of 2.1%. “As we look ahead to 2025, we are well-pleased to see continued strong employment growth coupled with solid wage levels,” said Charleston Digital Executive Director, Ernest Andrade.