Salaries in Ames, IA

1. Software Engineer
   Average Salary: $99,464
   Create and maintain software solutions in a tech-driven environment. Companies like John Deere and local startups offer exciting projects. Work in a dynamic city with many professional development opportunities.
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2. CDL Driver
   Average Salary: $80,828
   Operate large vehicles to deliver goods across the region. Local businesses provide stable jobs and benefits. Enjoy a role with good pay and the chance to travel within the area.
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3. Registered Nurse
   Average Salary: $72,222
   Provide patient care and support in hospitals and clinics. Local healthcare facilities offer comprehensive benefits and a supportive work environment. Make a difference in people’s lives every day.
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4. Counselor
   Average Salary: $70,979
   Offer guidance and support to individuals and families. Community centers and schools provide a variety of settings. Help people navigate challenges and improve their well-being.
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5. General Manager
   Average Salary: $64,325
   Oversee daily operations of a business. Local restaurants and retail stores offer dynamic and rewarding roles. Manage teams and drive business success in a fast-paced environment.
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6. Licensed Practical Nurse
   Average Salary: $59,746
   Provide essential nursing care in healthcare settings. Local hospitals and clinics offer job stability and growth opportunities. Work closely with patients and healthcare teams to ensure quality care.
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7. Maintenance Technician
   Average Salary: $55,335
   Ensure facilities run smoothly by performing repairs and maintenance. Local businesses offer varied roles and steady employment. Gain practical skills and make a tangible impact on the workplace.
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8. Retail Sales Associate
   Average Salary: $50,896
   Help customers find the products they need in local stores. Retail positions offer flexible hours and opportunities for customer interaction. Develop strong communication and sales skills.
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9. Intern
   Average Salary: $45,027
   Gain hands-on experience in a professional setting. Internships in various fields offer valuable learning opportunities. Develop skills and build a network for future career advancement.
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10. Administrative Assistant
    Average Salary: $42,549
    Support office operations by handling administrative tasks. Local businesses offer a variety of roles with steady work. Develop organizational and communication skills in a supportive environment.
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1. Landscaper
   Average Salary: $37,982
   Landscaping involves maintaining the grounds and outdoor spaces. The work takes place in parks, gardens, and private properties. Companies like local gardening services and landscape design firms hire for these roles.
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2. Groundskeeper
   Average Salary: $37,672
   This job focuses on caring for the outdoor areas of properties. The work includes mowing, trimming, and planting. Local schools, golf courses, and maintenance companies often need these workers.
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3. Housekeeping
   Average Salary: $37,152
   Housekeeping involves cleaning and organizing spaces in hotels, motels, and apartments. It requires attention to detail and a tidy work ethic. Many hospitality companies look for housekeeping staff regularly.
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4. Line Cook
   Average Salary: $33,129
   Line cooks work in busy kitchens, preparing food quickly and efficiently. They work in restaurants, cafes, and food service companies. Fast-paced environments are common, and teamwork is essential.
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5. Server
   Average Salary: $31,584
   Servers take orders and deliver food and drinks to customers in dining establishments. They interact directly with guests, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Popular spots like diners and family restaurants hire for these roles.
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6. Kitchen Team Member
   Average Salary: $30,756
   Kitchen team members assist in all areas of food preparation and cooking. They work in various dining environments, including fast food and casual dining. The role requires flexibility and the ability to handle multiple tasks.
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7. Barista
   Average Salary: $30,240
   Baristas prepare and serve coffee and other beverages in coffee shops. They work with customers to create custom drinks and ensure a welcoming atmosphere. Local cafes and coffee chains frequently hire for these positions.
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8. Server Assistant
   Average Salary: $29,829
   Server assistants support the main server by setting up tables and clearing dishes. The job requires quick thinking and good communication skills. They work in restaurants and food service venues to ensure smooth operations.
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9. Dishwasher
   Average Salary: $28,801
   Dishwasher jobs involve cleaning dishes and kitchen utensils. The work takes place in busy kitchens. Restaurants, cafes, and food service companies need dishwashers to keep operations running smoothly.
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1. Thomson Reuters
   Average Salary: $160,592
   Thomson Reuters is a global information services company. It offers professional and business solutions. Employees often enjoy competitive salaries and benefits.
   

   
   

2. Iowa Department of Health and Human Services
   Average Salary: $71,470
   The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services works to improve health outcomes. It provides various social services. It offers stable employment with good compensation.
   

   
   

3. Story Construction
   Average Salary: $68,865
   Story Construction is a leading construction company in Iowa. It specializes in commercial and residential projects. It provides good salaries and a friendly work environment.
   

   
   

4. Athletico
   Average Salary: $57,828
   Athletico offers physical therapy services. It aims to help people recover from injuries. Employees benefit from a supportive work culture and decent pay.
   

   
   

5. Walmart
   Average Salary: $57,321
   Walmart is a global retail giant. It provides a wide range of products. Employees often enjoy various benefits and good compensation.
   

   
   

6. Iowa State University - Ivy College of Business
   Average Salary: $55,763
   Ivy College of Business offers business education at Iowa State University. It focuses on preparing students for successful careers. Faculty members earn good salaries.
   

   
   

7. City of Ames, Iowa
   Average Salary: $49,664
   The City of Ames provides essential services to its residents. It includes public safety, utilities, and more. Employees benefit from stable jobs and fair salaries.
   

   
   

8. Accura HealthCare
   Average Salary: $48,977
   Accura HealthCare offers post-acute care services. It focuses on patient recovery and rehabilitation. Employees enjoy good pay and a caring work environment.
   

   
   

9. YSS
   Average Salary: $46,999
   YSS supports youth and families. It provides counseling and social services. Employees enjoy meaningful work and good compensation.
   

   
   

10. Green Hills Community
    Average Salary: $43,844
    Green Hills Community offers housing and community services. It focuses on enhancing the quality of life. Employees benefit from stable employment and fair pay.
    

Ames, IA has a cost of living that is generally lower than the nationwide average. Housing costs in Ames are 80 on the index scale, which means they are 20% lower than the national average of 100. This lower housing cost can be a significant benefit for those considering a move to Ames, as it may allow for higher savings or disposable income.

In addition to housing, several other areas of living expenses are also relatively lower in Ames. For example, groceries are 90 on the index, which is 10% below the national average. Utilities are slightly higher at 95, only 5% above the average, while transportation costs are 85, 15% lower. Although healthcare costs in Ames align with the national average at 100, miscellaneous expenses are also at 85, providing a 15% saving. Overall, Ames presents a favorable cost of living with several categories below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals.