What is the average salary in East Lansing, MI?
Job seekers in East Lansing, MI, can expect a variety of salaries across different industries. The average yearly salary stands at $53,746. This figure reflects the diverse economic landscape of the area, offering competitive pay across many sectors.
Salaries range from $24,000 to $160,000 annually. The distribution of these salaries shows a broad spectrum, with the majority of jobs falling between $36,364 and $98,182. This range provides opportunities for both entry-level positions and more experienced professionals. Industries such as education, healthcare, and technology offer some of the higher-paying jobs, while retail and hospitality tend to be on the lower end of the scale.
What are the best paying jobs in East Lansing, MI?

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Technical Project Lead
Average Salary: $107,160
This role is key in managing tech projects. It involves coordinating with teams and ensuring projects meet deadlines. Companies like MSU and local tech firms offer these roles.
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Dental Hygienist
Average Salary: $93,898
Dental hygienists clean teeth and educate patients on oral care. They work in clinics and private practices. This job is vital for maintaining community health.
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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $84,350
Behavior analysts work with individuals to improve their behaviors. They often work in schools and clinics. This role is important for helping people with special needs.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $80,557
RNs provide patient care and support doctors. They work in hospitals and clinics. This job is crucial for the health and well-being of patients.
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Insurance Agent
Average Salary: $67,634
Insurance agents help people find the right coverage. They work for insurance companies and independent firms. This job involves a lot of customer interaction.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $65,964
LPNs provide basic patient care under the supervision of RNs. They work in hospitals and clinics. This role is essential for patient care and support.
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Outreach Specialist
Average Salary: $64,453
Outreach specialists connect with the community to promote services. They work for non-profits and government agencies. This job involves a lot of communication and outreach.
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Physical Therapist Assistant
Average Salary: $60,480
PTAs help patients recover from injuries. They work in clinics and rehabilitation centers. This job is important for helping people regain mobility and strength.
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Information Technology Specialist
Average Salary: $57,929
IT specialists support computer systems and networks. They work for various companies and organizations. This job is crucial for keeping technology running smoothly.
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Property Manager
Average Salary: $57,142
Property managers oversee residential or commercial properties. They handle maintenance and tenant relations. This job is important for maintaining property value and tenant satisfaction.
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What are the best paying jobs in East Lansing, MI without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $46,000
Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth service. Work in local eateries and hotels.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $36,399
Maintain the grounds of parks, schools, and businesses. Perform tasks like mowing, trimming, and planting. Work for city parks and private properties.
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Server
Average Salary: $32,748
Serve food and drinks to customers in a restaurant. Take orders, deliver food, and handle payments. Work in local dining spots and cafes.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $32,635
Help servers with tasks like setting tables, clearing dishes, and restocking supplies. Work in busy restaurants and cafes. Support the main servers.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $32,594
Prepare ingredients and cook food in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and ensure food quality. Work in local restaurants and cafes.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $31,522
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels and motels. Change linens, tidy up, and ensure a clean environment. Work for local hospitality businesses.
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To Go Specialist
Average Salary: $30,425
Prepare and package food for takeout orders. Ensure orders are correct and ready on time. Work in fast-food restaurants and cafes.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $29,768
Wash dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Keep the kitchen clean and organized. Work in busy restaurants and cafes.
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Barista
Average Salary: $26,859
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers and take orders. Work in local coffee shops and cafes.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in East Lansing, MI?

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State of Michigan
Average Salary: $86,408
The State of Michigan offers a variety of roles in government, education, and public services. Employees benefit from competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits.
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Medilodge
Average Salary: $67,357
Medilodge provides skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. They focus on patient care and offer a supportive work environment for healthcare professionals.
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Vertafore
Average Salary: $64,299
Vertafore specializes in software solutions for insurance companies. They offer dynamic roles with opportunities for growth and development.
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CITY OF EAST LANSING
Average Salary: $56,029
The City of East Lansing provides essential services to the community. Employees enjoy a stable work environment with good benefits.
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Michigan State University
Average Salary: $53,603
Michigan State University is a leading educational institution. It offers diverse career opportunities in education, research, and administration.
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Michigan State University Federal Credit Union
Average Salary: $51,728
The credit union provides financial services to the MSU community. It offers stable employment and a supportive work culture.
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The Willows at East Lansing
Average Salary: $51,583
The Willows at East Lansing is a senior living community. They focus on providing quality care and a warm environment for residents.
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Hope Network
Average Salary: $44,887
Hope Network offers mental health and developmental services. They provide meaningful work and opportunities to make a difference in people's lives.
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Vista Springs Living
Average Salary: $41,461
Vista Springs Living is a senior living community. They focus on creating a comfortable and engaging environment for their residents.
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Applebee's
Average Salary: $40,270
Applebee's is a popular casual dining restaurant. It offers flexible hours and a welcoming work environment for those in the hospitality industry.
How does the cost of living in East Lansing, MI compare to the national average?

The cost of living in East Lansing, MI, presents a favorable comparison to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in East Lansing stand at 89, which is 11% below the average. This makes it a more affordable option for those seeking to rent or buy homes in the area. Additionally, groceries cost 95, which is 5% below the average, offering some relief for daily food expenses.
Utilities in East Lansing are priced at 97, which is 3% higher than the national average. This slight increase is worth noting, but it remains relatively close to the average. Transportation costs are at 92, which is 8% below the average, making commuting and other travel expenses more manageable. Healthcare costs are 87, which is 13% lower than the national average, providing a significant advantage for those concerned about medical expenses. Miscellaneous costs are at 90, which is 10% below the average, indicating that other everyday expenses are also more affordable in East Lansing.