What is the average salary in Athens, AL?
Athens, Alabama offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary stands at $49,448, making it a desirable place for job seekers. Different industries offer varying pay scales, which can benefit those looking for specific career paths.
Athens has a diverse job market. The highest-paying jobs include roles in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and technology. These roles often offer salaries upwards of $100,000 per year. Additionally, mid-level positions in management and engineering also provide attractive compensation packages. This variety ensures that there are opportunities for both entry-level and experienced professionals.
What are the best paying jobs in Athens, AL?

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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $79,318
Works with individuals to improve behaviors. Collaborates with schools and clinics. Helps people with autism and other conditions.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $71,445
Provides patient care in hospitals and clinics. Monitors health and treatments. Works with doctors and other healthcare professionals.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $59,763
Oversees daily operations in businesses. Manages staff and budgets. Ensures smooth business operations.
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Retail Sales Associate
Average Salary: $57,500
Helps customers find and buy products. Works in stores. Manages inventory and handles transactions.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $53,794
Provides basic medical care. Works in hospitals and clinics. Monitors patient health and reports to doctors.
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Hair Stylist
Average Salary: $51,604
Cuts, colors, and styles hair. Works in salons. Provides personalized beauty services.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $51,323
Maintains and repairs equipment. Works in various industries. Ensures equipment runs smoothly.
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Sales Associate
Average Salary: $44,431
Sells products to customers. Works in retail stores. Promotes and explains products.
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Medical Assistant
Average Salary: $35,041
Assists doctors and nurses. Works in clinics and hospitals. Handles administrative tasks and patient care.
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Forklift Operator
Average Salary: $33,951
Operates forklifts in warehouses. Moves and stacks materials. Ensures safe and efficient operations.
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What are the best paying jobs in Athens, AL without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $56,140
Oversee daily operations of a local eatery. Manage staff, ensure customer satisfaction, and handle finances. Work with popular dining spots and chain restaurants.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $34,844
Clean and maintain guest rooms and public areas. This role involves working at hotels and motels. Follow strict cleaning standards to ensure guest comfort.
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Server
Average Salary: $30,970
Serve food and beverages to customers. Take orders, process payments, and ensure guests have a pleasant dining experience. Work in cafes, diners, and local restaurants.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $29,252
Assist guests with inquiries and needs. Promote a friendly atmosphere and maintain cleanliness. This role is ideal for those in the hospitality industry, including hotel lobbies and conference services.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $28,538
Prepare food according to recipes and guidelines. Work in fast-paced kitchens and follow safety protocols. Experience is gained at local eateries and food service establishments.
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Barista
Average Salary: $28,162
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers and create delicious drink orders. Work in coffee shops and local cafes.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $26,741
Clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Ensure a clean and sanitary kitchen environment. Ideal for those who enjoy a steady work pace in the food service industry.
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Laundry Aide
Average Salary: $25,169
Handle laundry tasks, including washing, drying, and ironing. Ensure cleanliness and proper care of items. This role is suited for those who enjoy hands-on work in hospitality settings.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Athens, AL?

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Huntsville Hospital Health System
Average Salary: $45,408
Huntsville Hospital Health System offers a variety of healthcare services. It is a well-established organization in Athens, known for its comprehensive benefits and opportunities for growth.
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Athens Health and Rehabilitation
Average Salary: $43,250
Athens Health and Rehabilitation focuses on providing quality care for patients. The company values its staff and offers competitive salaries to attract the best talent.
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UFP Industries, Inc.
Average Salary: $43,233
UFP Industries, Inc. is a leader in the manufacturing sector. They provide a stable work environment with good benefits and chances for advancement.
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Yellowhammer Salon Group
Average Salary: $38,111
Yellowhammer Salon Group is known for its vibrant and creative atmosphere. They offer various services and aim to provide a rewarding work experience.
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Allied Universal
Average Salary: $33,519
Allied Universal offers security services and has a strong reputation for reliability. The company values its employees and offers a supportive work environment.
How does the cost of living in Athens, AL compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Athens, Alabama, compared to the nationwide average, presents a fairly favorable picture for residents and job seekers alike. Athens' overall cost of living index stands at 88, which is 12% below the national average of 100. This suggests that many everyday expenses are more affordable than in the average U.S. city. For instance, housing in Athens is 20% cheaper than the national average, with an index of 80. This means that renters and homeowners can benefit from lower housing costs, making it easier to manage overall expenditures.
Additionally, other categories such as groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous costs are also slightly below the national average. Groceries have an index of 90, utilities at 95, and transportation at 85, each showing minor variations from the average. Healthcare, which can often be a significant expense, is at 95, indicating it is just slightly above the national average. These figures suggest that Athens provides a generally cost-effective environment for living, with many expenses falling below the national average and only a few categories slightly above. This overall lower cost of living makes Athens an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing quality.



