City
Salary
Altoona, IA, offers a variety of job opportunities with different salary ranges. The average yearly salary in the area stands at $45,304. This figure provides a good overview of the earning potential across various industries.
Here is a breakdown of salary distribution in Altoona:

General Manager
Average Salary: $63,758
The general manager oversees the operations of a store or restaurant. Duties include managing staff, ensuring smooth operations, and maintaining customer satisfaction. Companies like local chain stores and restaurants offer these positions in Altoona.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $46,429
This role involves fixing and maintaining equipment and facilities. Technicians work in industries like manufacturing and retail. They ensure that all equipment runs smoothly. Companies like manufacturing firms in Altoona often need skilled technicians.
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Store Manager
Average Salary: $40,909
Store managers lead a team of employees in retail settings. They handle inventory, sales, and customer service. Managers work for local businesses, supermarkets, and convenience stores, ensuring a pleasant shopping experience for customers.
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Server
Average Salary: $36,630
Work in local dining establishments. Serve food and drinks. Ensure customer satisfaction. Notable employers include restaurants and cafes.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $34,975
Prepare ingredients and cook meals quickly. Work in fast-paced kitchens. Must follow recipes and hygiene standards. Key employers include restaurants and food trucks.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $32,921
Clean and maintain guest rooms. Ensure a tidy environment. Must be detail-oriented and efficient. Work in hotels and motels.
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Barista
Average Salary: $31,658
Prepare and serve coffee and beverages. Interact with customers. Must have a good understanding of different coffee types. Local coffee shops are hiring.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $30,820
Clean and sanitize dishes and utensils. Operate dishwashing machines. Must pay attention to detail. Work in busy kitchens and restaurants.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $24,292
Help servers with tasks. Manage seating and take orders. Need good communication skills. Ideal for those starting in the service industry.
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Kwik Trip
Average Salary: $45,514
Kwik Trip is a family-owned retail chain known for convenience stores and gas stations. They offer competitive salaries and benefits to their employees.
Southeast Polk Community School District
Average Salary: $43,439
This school district offers jobs in education. Teachers and staff receive good salaries along with benefits, making it a stable choice.
Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino, Inc.
Average Salary: $40,072
Prairie Meadows offers a variety of roles from gaming to hospitality. Workers can expect good pay and benefits, especially in management positions.
Balance Autism
Average Salary: $38,235
Balance Autism provides services for individuals with autism. They offer competitive pay and aim to provide a supportive work environment.
Pizza Ranch Altoona
Average Salary: $38,094
This restaurant is part of a family-friendly chain. They offer good wages and opportunities for career growth in the food service industry.
Rocket Carwash
Average Salary: $31,501
Rocket Carwash offers car wash services. Employees receive fair salaries and can find various roles within the business.
Pancheros Mexican Grill
Average Salary: $30,414
Pancheros offers authentic Mexican cuisine. They provide competitive wages for their staff, along with a fun work environment.

Altoona, IA, shows a cost of living that is slightly lower than the nationwide average. The nationwide average cost of living index is set at 100, and Altoona's overall index is slightly below that at 88. This means that, on average, it costs less to live in Altoona compared to the rest of the country. Housing in Altoona stands at 80, which is 20% lower than the national average. This makes it one of the more affordable areas for those looking to settle down and buy or rent a home.
When considering other expenses, Altoona also shows competitive prices. Groceries cost 90 on the index, which is 10% lower than the average. Utilities cost 95, which is 5% lower. Transportation expenses are at 85, which is 15% less expensive. Healthcare costs are also slightly lower, at 90, meaning 10% savings compared to the national average. Miscellaneous expenses are at 88, showing an 12% decrease. Overall, Altoona offers a cost of living that is beneficial for job seekers looking to manage their expenses effectively.