Forklift Operator Salary in Columbus, OH
Forklift Operator salaries in Columbus range from $30,000 to $65,000 in 2026. The mid-level median is $44,500, which is 0% above the national average.
Junior (0-2 yrs)
$30,000 – $38,000
Median: $34,000 · per year
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)
$39,000 – $50,000
Median: $44,500 · per year
Senior (6+ yrs)
$52,000 – $65,000
Median: $58,500 · per year
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5 years
Entry level20+ years
Estimated Forklift Operator Salary in Columbus, OH
Estimated†$45,500–$57,500/year
Median: $51,500 per year (adjusted for Columbus cost of living)
Junior
$34,000
0-2 yrs
Mid-Level
$44,500
3-5 yrs
Senior
$58,500
6+ yrs
Cost of Living in Columbus
Cost of Living Levelmoderate
Population910K
Top IndustriesInsurance & Financial Services, Technology, Education
vs National Average+0%
Top Employers in Columbus
Nationwide InsuranceOhio State UniversityJPMorgan ChaseCardinal HealthHonda North America
How Columbus Compares
| City | Mid-Level Median | Cost of Living |
|---|---|---|
| Columbus, OH | $44,500 | moderate |
| New York, NY | $64,525 | very high |
| Los Angeles, CA | $64,525 | very high |
| Chicago, IL | $53,400 | high |
| Houston, TX | $44,500 | moderate |
| Phoenix, AZ | $44,500 | moderate |