What is the average salary in Ames, IA?
Ames, IA offers a range of salary opportunities for job seekers. The average yearly salary in Ames is $52,383. This figure provides a good overview of the earning potential in the area. Salaries vary across different industries and roles, offering diverse options for professionals.
The salary distribution in Ames shows a spread across various sectors. The highest percentage of jobs, 31.36%, falls within the $24,000 to $36,364 range. Other notable ranges include 22.14% of jobs paying between $36,364 and $48,727, and 14.66% in the $48,727 to $61,091 bracket. This distribution highlights the variety of earning potentials available to job seekers in Ames.
What are the best paying jobs in Ames, IA?

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Technical Project Lead
Average Salary: $91,863
This role is key in guiding tech projects. It involves overseeing teams and ensuring projects meet goals. Companies like ISU and local tech firms offer these roles.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $85,770
Driving large vehicles is a vital job. It requires a commercial driver's license. Companies like UPS and local logistics firms need drivers.
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Transportation Engineer
Average Salary: $83,589
This job focuses on designing and improving transport systems. It involves working with city planners and engineers. Local government and firms like AECOM are employers.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $70,424
RNs provide patient care and support. They work in hospitals and clinics. Local healthcare facilities and ISU Health Services offer these positions.
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Counselor
Average Salary: $67,194
Counselors help people with personal issues. They work in schools, clinics, and private practices. Local schools and mental health centers hire counselors.
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Automotive Technician
Average Salary: $66,648
This job involves fixing and maintaining vehicles. It requires knowledge of car systems. Local dealerships and auto repair shops offer these roles.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $58,931
General managers oversee business operations. They manage staff and ensure smooth operations. Retail stores and restaurants in Ames need managers.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $56,153
LPNs provide basic patient care. They work in hospitals and clinics. Local healthcare facilities offer LPN positions.
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Retail Sales Associate
Average Salary: $53,051
Sales associates help customers find products. They work in stores and online. Local retailers like Target and Walmart hire sales associates.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $52,728
This role involves fixing and maintaining equipment. It requires technical skills. Local businesses and facilities hire maintenance technicians.
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What are the best paying jobs in Ames, IA without a degree?

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Loader Operator
Average Salary: $55,545
Loader operators handle heavy machinery. They load and unload materials. This job is available with local construction firms and logistics companies.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $37,918
Groundskeepers maintain lawns and gardens. They mow, trim, and water plants. This role is found with property management firms and local government.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $37,333
Landscapers design and install outdoor spaces. They plant trees, lay mulch, and build garden features. This job is available with landscaping companies and nurseries.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $32,879
Housekeepers clean and organize rooms. They dust, vacuum, and tidy up. This job is available in hotels, motels, and residential properties.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $32,650
Line cooks prepare food quickly. They chop, cook, and plate meals. This role is found in restaurants, cafes, and food trucks.
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Server
Average Salary: $32,417
Servers take orders and serve food. They interact with customers and ensure a pleasant dining experience. This job is available in restaurants, cafes, and bars.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $31,441
Kitchen team members assist cooks. They prepare ingredients and clean the kitchen. This role is found in restaurants, cafes, and food service companies.
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Barista
Average Salary: $30,813
Baristas make coffee and other drinks. They take orders and operate coffee machines. This job is available in coffee shops and cafes.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $30,031
Server assistants help servers. They bus tables and refill supplies. This role is found in restaurants, cafes, and bars.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $28,113
Dishwasher clean dishes and utensils. They wash, dry, and store them. This job is available in restaurants, cafes, and food service companies.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Ames, IA?

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Thomson Reuters
Average Salary: $160,592
Thomson Reuters is a leading company in the information and technology services industry. They offer solutions for professionals in law, tax, accounting, and more. Their work environment is dynamic and encourages growth.
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Iowa Department of Transportation
Average Salary: $73,461
The Iowa Department of Transportation works to build and maintain the state's roads and infrastructure. They focus on safety and efficiency, making them a key player in the state's development.
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State of Iowa
Average Salary: $68,778
The State of Iowa offers a variety of jobs in different sectors. They aim to provide essential services to the residents of Iowa, ensuring a high quality of life.
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STORY CONSTRUCTION
Average Salary: $64,964
STORY CONSTRUCTION is a local company known for its work in construction and development. They focus on building quality structures and have a strong reputation in the community.
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Iowa State University
Average Salary: $55,500
Iowa State University is a top educational institution. It offers a wide range of academic and research opportunities. The university is committed to excellence in education and innovation.
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MARY GREELEY MEDICAL CENTER
Average Salary: $55,169
MARY GREELEY MEDICAL CENTER is a leading healthcare provider. They offer a range of medical services and are dedicated to patient care and well-being.
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Bickford Senior Living
Average Salary: $47,289
Bickford Senior Living provides care and services for seniors. They focus on creating a comfortable and supportive environment for their residents.
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BioLife Plasma Services
Average Salary: $46,633
BioLife Plasma Services collects plasma donations. They play a crucial role in the healthcare industry by providing plasma for medical treatments.
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ChildServe
Average Salary: $43,009
ChildServe offers services for children and families. They focus on providing support and resources to help children thrive.
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AMES COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Average Salary: $41,032
AMES COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT manages public schools in Ames. They are dedicated to providing quality education to students in the community.
How does the cost of living in Ames, IA compare to the national average?

The cost of living index in Ames, IA, shows a mixed picture when compared to the nationwide average. Housing costs in Ames stand at 85, which is 15% lower than the national average. This suggests that job seekers can find more affordable housing options in Ames. Lower housing costs can be a significant advantage for individuals and families looking to manage their budgets effectively.
Other expenses in Ames also compare favorably to the national average. For instance, groceries cost 95, which is 5% lower than the average. Utilities are slightly higher at 98, but still only 2% above the national average. Transportation costs are at 90, which is 10% below the average. Healthcare costs in Ames are 92, just 2% below the average, and miscellaneous expenses are at 93, which is 7% below the average. Overall, these figures indicate that living in Ames can be more affordable in several key areas compared to the national average.



