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What is the average salary in Altoona, IA?

The average salary in Altoona, IA is $45,646 per year.

Altoona, IA, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average yearly salary for jobs in Altoona stands at 45,646 dollars. This figure provides a benchmark for job seekers to understand the earning potential in the area.


The salary distribution shows a spread across different sectors. For instance, positions in the lowest percentile earn around 23,000 dollars annually, while those in the highest percentile can make up to 120,000 dollars per year. Some common salary ranges include:

  • 23,000 dollars to 31,818 dollars
  • 31,818 dollars to 40,636 dollars
  • 40,636 dollars to 49,455 dollars
  • 49,455 dollars to 58,273 dollars
  • 58,273 dollars to 67,091 dollars
  • 67,091 dollars to 75,909 dollars
  • 75,909 dollars to 84,727 dollars
  • 84,727 dollars to 93,545 dollars
  • 93,545 dollars to 102,364 dollars
  • 102,364 dollars to 111,182 dollars
  • 111,182 dollars to 120,000 dollars

Job seekers in Altoona can find competitive salaries, with various options catering to different levels of experience and expertise.

View jobs in Altoona, IA

What are the best paying jobs in Altoona, IA?

Altoona, IA, offers a range of well-paying jobs for professionals seeking good compensation. At the top is the role of General Manager, with an average salary of nearly $65,000. This position commands respect and offers a significant income, making it an attractive option for those with leadership skills. Following closely are Maintenance Technicians, earning around $51,000 on average. This role is vital for ensuring smooth operations in various industries and provides a stable and rewarding career path. Other notable jobs include Team Members and Line Cooks, though their salaries are slightly lower, still providing good opportunities for those in these fields.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Altoona, IA, highlighting General Manager with the highest at $65,447 and Sales Associate with the lowest at $32,932.
  1. General Manager
    Average Salary: $65,447
    This role involves overseeing daily operations of a business. Managers make important decisions to keep the business running smoothly. Key companies in Altoona, like local hotels and restaurants, need strong leaders.
    Find General Manager jobs in Altoona, IA


  2. Maintenance Technician
    Average Salary: $51,114
    This job focuses on fixing and maintaining equipment. Technicians work to ensure that machinery and facilities are in good working order. Companies in Altoona, such as manufacturing plants, rely on skilled technicians.
    Find Maintenance Technician jobs in Altoona, IA


  3. Team Member
    Average Salary: $36,077
    Team members play a vital role in various settings. They help keep things running efficiently and provide excellent service to customers. Local businesses in Altoona, like retail stores and restaurants, need dedicated team members.
    Find Team Member jobs in Altoona, IA


  4. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $34,406
    Line cooks work fast and efficiently in a kitchen. They prepare ingredients and cook food quickly and to high standards. Many Altoona restaurants, especially those with busy dining areas, need skilled line cooks.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Altoona, IA


  5. Cashier
    Average Salary: $33,148
    Cashiers handle transactions in retail and food service. They ensure accuracy and provide good customer service. Retailers and grocery stores in Altoona depend on cashiers to manage checkouts smoothly.
    Find Cashier jobs in Altoona, IA


  6. Sales Associate
    Average Salary: $32,932
    Sales associates help customers find what they need. They provide information and support to ensure a positive shopping experience. Retail stores in Altoona, such as clothing shops and electronics stores, benefit from skilled sales associates.
    Find Sales Associate jobs in Altoona, IA

What are the best paying jobs in Altoona, IA without a degree?

Job seekers in Altoona, IA, have several opportunities for well-paying positions that do not require a college degree. Among the top jobs is a line cook, with an average salary of $34,406. Servers and housekeeping staff also earn solid incomes, with averages around $34,050 and $32,800, respectively. These roles provide good pay for those willing to gain experience and skills on the job. Dishwashers and server assistants can expect average salaries of around $30,833 and $22,696, respectively. These positions offer a chance for steady employment and good earnings.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Altoona, IA without a degree, highlighting Line Cook with the highest at $34,406 and Server Assistant with the lowest at $22,696.
  1. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $34,406
    Line cooks prepare meals in busy kitchens. They work with chefs and kitchen staff to ensure food is made quickly and correctly. Many local restaurants hire line cooks, including eateries like Smith's Diner and The Green Bistro.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Altoona, IA


  2. Server
    Average Salary: $34,050
    Servers work in dining rooms, taking orders and serving food to customers. They often greet guests, handle payments, and make sure patrons have what they need. At places like The Local Pub and Cafe and The Mountain View Restaurant, servers play a key role.
    Find Server jobs in Altoona, IA


  3. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $32,800
    Housekeeping staff clean and maintain guest rooms and public areas. They ensure spaces are tidy and comfortable for everyone. This role can be found in hotels, motels, and other lodging facilities such as The Altoona Inn and The River Lodge.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Altoona, IA


  4. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $30,833
    Dishwasher workers clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. They work in fast-paced environments and ensure everything is ready for the next use. Many local diners and cafes need dishwashers, like at The Busy Bee Cafe and Joe's Diner.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Altoona, IA


  5. Server Assistant
    Average Salary: $22,696
    Server assistants help servers by setting up tables, refilling supplies, and maintaining a clean dining area. They work closely with the main staff to ensure smooth operations. Positions are available at popular spots such as The Corner Grill and The Brew House.
    Find Server Assistant jobs in Altoona, IA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Altoona, IA?

Companies in Altoona, IA, offer a variety of salary opportunities. Ziegler Caterpillar leads with the highest average salary of $68,804. This makes it a top choice for those seeking higher pay. Other notable employers include Southeast Polk Community School District, which offers an average salary of $46,740, and Tmarzetti Company with $46,498. Job seekers will find competitive salaries at Prairie Meadows, Balance Autism, and Rocket Carwash. Prairie Meadows pays an average of $40,326, while Balance Autism provides $37,122. Rocket Carwash offers $32,010, making it a good option for those looking for dependable income. Pancheros Mexican Grill rounds out the list with an average salary of $30,534, still offering a solid wage for many positions.
Graph displaying company salaries in Altoona, IA, highlighting Ziegler Caterpillar with the highest at $68,804 and Pancheros Mexican Grill with the lowest at $30,534.
  1. Ziegler Caterpillar
    Average Salary: $68,804
    Ziegler Caterpillar, located in Altoona, provides farm equipment and parts. The company offers a variety of roles, including sales and service. Employees benefit from good wages and opportunities for career advancement.


  2. Southeast Polk Community School District
    Average Salary: $46,740
    The Southeast Polk Community School District employs a wide range of professionals, from teachers to support staff. It is a stable employer that provides competitive salaries, making it an attractive option for career growth.


  3. Tmarzetti Company
    Average Salary: $46,498
    Tmarzetti Company focuses on manufacturing and supplies. It offers a variety of jobs in production and logistics. Employees enjoy good benefits and a stable work environment.


  4. Prairie Meadows
    Average Salary: $40,326
    Prairie Meadows offers entertainment and gaming options. Positions range from gaming to hospitality. It provides a dynamic work environment with opportunities for advancement.


  5. Balance Autism
    Average Salary: $37,122
    Balance Autism provides specialized services for individuals with autism. Roles include therapists and support staff. The company is dedicated to helping clients, making it a rewarding place to work.


  6. Rocket Carwash
    Average Salary: $32,010
    Rocket Carwash offers car washing services. Employees work in customer service and vehicle maintenance. It provides entry-level jobs with chances to learn new skills.


  7. Pancheros Mexican Grill
    Average Salary: $30,534
    Pancheros Mexican Grill offers dining services. Positions include kitchen staff and front-of-house roles. The company provides a friendly work environment and opportunities for growth in the food service industry.

How does the cost of living in Altoona, IA compare to the national average?

Altoona, IA, has a cost of living index of 88, which is 8% below the nationwide average of 100. This difference means that, on average, residents can expect to pay less for their everyday expenses compared to the national norm. Lower housing, utilities, and transportation costs make Altoona an attractive option for those looking to reduce their living expenses while maintaining a decent quality of life.
Cost of living comparison graph for Altoona, IA vs. Nationwide: housing 20% lower, groceries 10% lower, utilities 5% lower, transportation 15% lower, healthcare 0% lower, miscellaneous 12% lower.

Altoona, IA, presents a cost of living index that diverges from the nationwide average, providing various insights for professional job seekers. Housing in Altoona costs 20% less than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking more affordable living arrangements. The lower housing index can be particularly beneficial for individuals looking to allocate more of their budget to other areas such as savings or professional development.


When considering other aspects of daily expenses, the cost of groceries in Altoona is 10% less than the national average. This slight decrease in grocery costs can contribute to overall savings, offering a more budget-friendly lifestyle. Utilities in Altoona stand at 95% of the national average, indicating minimal variation in costs and reliable services. Transportation costs are also slightly lower, at 85% of the national average, suggesting that commuting and personal travel expenses may be more manageable. Healthcare costs in Altoona match the national average, ensuring that residents have access to quality medical services without additional financial strain. Miscellaneous costs are slightly lower at 88%, reflecting a generally balanced cost structure across various living essentials.

There are 272 job openings in Altoona, IA, today!

Take a deeper dive into the job market in Altoona, IA

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Altoona, IA
272 Job Openings