What is the average salary in Athens, AL?
Athens, Alabama, offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary for workers in Athens is around $49,691. This figure reflects the earnings of professionals across different sectors.
Job sectors in Athens have different salary ranges. The top-paying jobs are in the healthcare and scientific fields, with average salaries reaching up to $145,000 per year. Other high-paying jobs include those in finance and management, with average salaries around $99,909. Meanwhile, jobs in retail and hospitality pay around $21,000 to $32,273 annually. These figures provide a good overview for those seeking employment in Athens.
What are the best paying jobs in Athens, AL?

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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $72,669
These professionals offer patient care and administer treatments. They work in healthcare facilities, hospitals, and doctor's offices. The demand for healthcare services helps ensure job stability.
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Elementary Teacher
Average Salary: $66,190
Educators in this role teach young children basic subjects. They work in local schools, including public and private institutions. They play a crucial role in shaping future generations.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $54,355
They provide basic medical care and monitor patients under the supervision of doctors. These nurses work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Their work is vital for patient well-being.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $51,443
These workers handle repairs and maintenance of equipment. They work in various settings, including manufacturing plants and office buildings. Their skills ensure smooth operations and safety.
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Sales Associate
Average Salary: $42,178
They help customers find and purchase products. This role can be in retail stores, supermarkets, or specialized shops. They play a key role in customer service and satisfaction.
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Medical Assistant
Average Salary: $35,208
They assist healthcare providers with patient care and administrative tasks. They work in clinics, hospitals, and private practices. Their support is essential for efficient medical services.
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Delivery Driver
Average Salary: $35,172
These drivers transport goods and packages to customers. They work for delivery companies or local businesses. They play a key role in the supply chain and logistics.
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Forklift Operator
Average Salary: $34,102
They move materials by operating forklifts. They work in warehouses, factories, and distribution centers. Their skills are essential for handling heavy loads safely.
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Server
Average Salary: $31,708
These professionals serve food and drinks to customers. They work in restaurants, cafes, and banquet halls. Their service contributes to a pleasant dining experience.
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Cook
Average Salary: $29,812
They prepare meals and snacks following recipes. They work in restaurants, schools, and healthcare facilities. Their culinary skills bring joy through delicious food.
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What are the best paying jobs in Athens, AL without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $55,411
This role ensures smooth restaurant operations. It includes managing staff and maintaining customer satisfaction. It fits those who enjoy overseeing a busy environment and ensuring top-notch service.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $33,877
Housekeeping staff ensure cleanliness and order. They work in hotels and motels, cleaning rooms and common areas. The role demands attention to detail and a neat appearance.
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Server
Average Salary: $31,708
Serving customers is a key role in the dining industry. Servers take orders, serve food, and ensure guests have a pleasant experience. It's a job that involves direct interaction and communication.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $30,296
Service team members assist customers at various points of sale. They handle cash, credit cards, and customer inquiries. This position requires a friendly demeanor and basic computer skills.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $28,672
Line cooks prepare ingredients and dishes in a fast-paced kitchen. They follow recipes and work under pressure. This role is ideal for those who love cooking and teamwork.
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Barista
Average Salary: $28,504
Baristas craft beverages in cafes and restaurants. They take orders, prepare drinks, and ensure quality. It's a job for those who enjoy coffee and customer service.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $26,132
Dishwashers clean dishes, utensils, and cookware. They work in commercial kitchens, ensuring that all items are sanitized. It’s a hands-on role that requires attention to detail.
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Laundry Aide
Average Salary: $25,169
Laundry aides handle the washing, drying, and folding of clothes. They work in hotels, laundromats, or hospitals. The job involves physical work and a careful approach to handling fabrics.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Athens, AL?

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UFP Industries, Inc.
Average Salary: $45,808
UFP Industries, Inc. is a large manufacturing company known for producing a wide range of building products. It offers competitive salaries and a range of career opportunities.
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Huntsville Hospital Health System
Average Salary: $45,256
Huntsville Hospital Health System is a leading healthcare provider in Athens, AL. It offers various roles in healthcare with strong compensation packages and benefits.
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Athens Health and Rehabilitation
Average Salary: $43,799
Athens Health and Rehabilitation is a healthcare facility focused on patient care and rehabilitation. It provides good salaries and a supportive work environment.
How does the cost of living in Athens, AL compare to the national average?

Athens, AL, offers a cost of living that is notably lower than the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Specifically, the housing index in Athens stands at 74, which means that housing costs are 26% lower than the national average. This reduction in housing expenses can be a significant advantage for those looking to settle in Athens, allowing them to allocate more of their budget to other essential or discretionary spending.
When looking at other categories, Athens continues to exhibit affordability. Groceries cost 92 compared to the national index, which is a 8% lower cost. Utilities in Athens are priced at 97, only 3% above the national average. Transportation costs are slightly lower, at 90, which equates to a 10% saving. Healthcare in Athens is priced at 89, which is 11% below the national index, and miscellaneous expenses are at 93, only 7% above the average. Overall, Athens presents a favorable cost of living for job seekers and families.



