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What is the average salary in Altoona, IA?

The average salary in Altoona, IA is $45,625 per year.

In Altoona, IA, job seekers can find a range of salary opportunities. The average yearly salary stands at $45,625. This average gives a good sense of the earnings potential in the area. The range of salaries varies from $23,250 to $125,000. This spread offers options for many skill levels and job types.

Different industries contribute to the salary landscape in Altoona, IA. The highest percentage of jobs, at 29.94%, fall within the $32,500 to $41,750 range. Other significant portions of the workforce earn between $23,250 and $69,500. This diverse distribution means that there are opportunities for those at various stages in their careers. Whether someone is just starting out or looking for a higher-paying role, Altoona offers a mix of salaries to explore.

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What are the best paying jobs in Altoona, IA?

Altoona, IA offers various job opportunities that pay well. General Managers lead businesses and earn an average salary of around $62,594 a year. Maintenance Technicians ensure operations run smoothly and earn about $46,534 annually. Another high-paying job is a Store Manager, with an average salary of about $40,666. These roles involve overseeing daily store operations. Other good options include Customer Service Representatives and Shift Leaders, with salaries around $36,752 and $35,491 per year, respectively. These positions focus on ensuring customer satisfaction and leading teams.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Altoona, IA, highlighting General Manager with the highest at $62,594 and Sales Associate with the lowest at $32,077.
  1. General Manager
    Average Salary: $62,594
    This role involves overseeing daily operations and ensuring customer satisfaction. General managers often work in retail, hospitality, or food service. Responsibilities include managing staff, maintaining inventory, and ensuring a smooth operation.
    Find General Manager jobs in Altoona, IA


  2. Maintenance Technician
    Average Salary: $46,534
    These professionals keep machinery and equipment running smoothly. They repair and maintain tools to ensure production runs smoothly. They work in various industries, including manufacturing and food service.
    Find Maintenance Technician jobs in Altoona, IA


  3. Store Manager
    Average Salary: $40,666
    Store managers supervise sales staff and ensure excellent customer service. They manage inventory, handle budgets, and ensure the store meets sales goals. Store managers work in retail settings, including grocery stores and clothing shops.
    Find Store Manager jobs in Altoona, IA


  4. Customer Service Representative
    Average Salary: $36,752
    This position involves interacting with customers to address their needs. Representatives answer questions, resolve issues, and provide product information. They often work in call centers, retail, or hospitality.
    Find Customer Service Representative jobs in Altoona, IA


  5. Shift Leader
    Average Salary: $35,491
    Shift leaders oversee staff during a specific shift. They ensure tasks are completed and staff members follow company policies. They often work in retail or food service environments, supervising employees during their shifts.
    Find Shift Leader jobs in Altoona, IA


  6. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $34,747
    Line cooks prepare food quickly in high-volume kitchens. They work in fast-paced environments, often in restaurants. Tasks include preparing ingredients, cooking meals, and ensuring food quality.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Altoona, IA


  7. Delivery Driver
    Average Salary: $33,389
    Delivery drivers transport goods from businesses to customers. They need to follow delivery schedules and ensure items arrive safely. They often work for food delivery services or logistics companies.
    Find Delivery Driver jobs in Altoona, IA


  8. Cook
    Average Salary: $32,632
    Cooks prepare meals in various settings, such as restaurants and cafeterias. They follow recipes and ensure food quality. Cooks work in busy environments, often following specific dietary guidelines.
    Find Cook jobs in Altoona, IA


  9. Cashier
    Average Salary: $32,385
    Cashiers handle transactions at checkout counters. They must accurately ring up items and process payments. Cashiers work in retail stores, grocery stores, and pharmacies.
    Find Cashier jobs in Altoona, IA


  10. Sales Associate
    Average Salary: $32,077
    Sales associates help customers find products and complete purchases. They provide product information and ensure a positive shopping experience. They often work in retail environments, including clothing stores and electronics shops.
    Find Sales Associate jobs in Altoona, IA

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

Good news for job seekers in Altoona, IA: some top-paying jobs do not need a college degree. These positions often offer competitive pay and valuable experience. Roles like Server and Line Cook lead the list, with average salaries of $36,649 and $34,747 per year. Additionally, Housekeeping, Barista, Dishwasher, and Server Assistant offer good income opportunities without the need for higher education. These jobs range from $32,967 to $24,292 annually, providing solid financial rewards. This presents a great chance for those seeking well-paying work that does not require a degree.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Altoona, IA without a degree, highlighting Server with the highest at $36,649 and Server Assistant with the lowest at $24,292.
  1. Server
    Average Salary: $36,649
    Work in restaurants, serving food and drinks. Communicate orders to the kitchen. Ensure guests have a great dining experience. Companies like local cafes and diners hire.
    Find Server jobs in Altoona, IA


  2. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $34,747
    Prepare food quickly in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and maintain kitchen cleanliness. Collaborate with chefs and kitchen staff. Opportunities exist at family-owned eateries.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Altoona, IA


  3. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $32,967
    Clean guest rooms and public areas. Change linens and tidy up. Work in hotels and motels. Attention to detail and a strong work ethic are key.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Altoona, IA


  4. Barista
    Average Salary: $31,654
    Make coffee drinks and food items. Serve customers with a friendly attitude. Work in coffee shops and cafes. Fast-paced but fulfilling.
    Find Barista jobs in Altoona, IA


  5. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $30,740
    Wash dishes and clean kitchen areas. Keep the workplace tidy. Essential for restaurants and cafes. Reliable and hardworking individuals thrive.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Altoona, IA


  6. Server Assistant
    Average Salary: $24,292
    Support servers with tasks like refilling drinks and setting tables. Work in a fast-paced environment. Gain experience in the food service industry. Great entry-level position.
    Find Server Assistant jobs in Altoona, IA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Altoona, IA?

Altoona, IA, has several companies offering competitive salaries for their employees. Ziegler CAT tops the list with an average salary of about $66,004. This company offers the highest-paying jobs in the area. Kwik Trip and Southeast Polk Community School District follow closely, with average salaries around $44,793 and $43,437, respectively. For those seeking solid compensation, Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino, Inc., Balance Autism, and Pizza Ranch Altoona offer average salaries ranging from $38,305 to $43,437. Hy-Vee, Inc., Rocket Carwash, and Pancheros Mexican Grill provide salaries that average between $30,386 and $35,908. These companies present good opportunities for job seekers looking to secure a stable income in Altoona.
Graph displaying company salaries in Altoona, IA, highlighting Ziegler CAT with the highest at $66,004 and Pancheros Mexican Grill with the lowest at $30,386.
  1. Ziegler CAT
    Average Salary: $66,004
    Ziegler CAT offers a wide range of career opportunities in the construction and machinery industry. They focus on providing quality service and support to their clients.


  2. Kwik Trip
    Average Salary: $44,793
    Kwik Trip is a well-known retailer and convenience store chain that provides numerous career options. They value their employees and offer competitive salaries.


  3. Southeast Polk Community School District
    Average Salary: $43,437
    The Southeast Polk Community School District is committed to providing quality education. They offer various career opportunities in the educational sector.


  4. Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino, Inc.
    Average Salary: $39,665
    Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino, Inc. offers a vibrant work environment with various career options. They are a leading entertainment destination in the area.


  5. Balance Autism
    Average Salary: $38,305
    Balance Autism provides specialized care and support for individuals with autism. They offer rewarding career opportunities for those passionate about making a difference.


  6. Pizza Ranch Altoona
    Average Salary: $37,440
    Pizza Ranch Altoona is a popular local restaurant that offers a friendly work environment. They provide opportunities for those interested in the food service industry.


  7. Hy-Vee, Inc.
    Average Salary: $35,908
    Hy-Vee, Inc. is a well-established grocery store chain. They offer various career paths with a focus on customer service and quality products.


  8. Rocket Carwash
    Average Salary: $31,920
    Rocket Carwash provides quick and efficient car wash services. They offer entry-level and experienced positions in the automotive industry.


  9. Pancheros Mexican Grill
    Average Salary: $30,386
    Pancheros Mexican Grill is a fast-casual dining option known for its delicious food. They offer career opportunities for those interested in the restaurant business.

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

The cost of living index in Altoona, IA, is below the nationwide average, making it a more affordable place to live. Altoona’s overall cost of living index stands at 85, which is 15% lower than the average of 100. This lower cost spans various categories, including housing, groceries, and utilities, all of which are priced reasonably in comparison to the national figures.
Cost of living comparison graph for Altoona, IA vs. Nationwide: housing 28% lower, groceries 9% lower, utilities 12% lower, transportation 15% lower, healthcare 10% lower, miscellaneous 16% lower.

The cost of living in Altoona, IA, offers a unique perspective for those considering a move. Compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100, Altoona's housing index stands notably lower at 72. This means that housing costs in Altoona are 28% less than the national average, making it an attractive option for those looking to save on one of the largest expenses. Lower housing costs can significantly reduce overall living expenses, allowing for more discretionary spending or savings.


In other categories, Altoona also presents favorable comparisons. For groceries, the index is 91, which is 9% lower than the national average. Utilities are at 88, which is 12% below average, and transportation costs are at 85, which is 15% less. Healthcare costs, an important factor for many, are at 90, only 10% below the national average. Miscellaneous costs are also slightly lower at 84, meaning they are 16% below the national average. These lower costs across multiple categories make Altoona a potentially attractive place for individuals and families looking to manage their budgets more effectively.

There are 180 job openings in Altoona, IA, today!

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Altoona, IA
180 Job Openings