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What is the average salary in Fort Dodge, IA?

The average salary in Fort Dodge, IA is $58,909 per year.

The salary landscape in Fort Dodge, IA, offers diverse opportunities across various sectors. On average, professionals in the area earn about $58,909 annually. This figure provides a snapshot of the earning potential for workers in the region.


Some of the top paying industries in Fort Dodge include:

  • Business and financial operations: $129,464
  • Computer and mathematical occupations: $118,927
  • Management occupations: $108,391
  • Life, physical, and social science occupations: $97,855
  • Architecture and engineering occupations: $87,318

These figures highlight the range of salaries available and the potential for higher earnings in specialized fields.

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What are the best paying jobs in Fort Dodge, IA?

Fort Dodge offers several opportunities for job seekers looking for well-paying positions. The top-paying jobs in the area include roles such as Traveling Nurse, Registered Nurse, and Speech Language Pathologist. Each of these positions provides a competitive salary, making Fort Dodge an attractive place to work. For those with specialized skills, roles like Occupational Therapist and CDL Driver also offer substantial pay. These jobs require specific qualifications but provide a rewarding income. Other roles such as Technician and Maintenance Technician offer good salaries, providing stability and opportunities for career growth. Overall, Fort Dodge has a variety of jobs that can meet the financial needs of professional job seekers.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Fort Dodge, IA, highlighting Traveling Nurse with the highest at $129,730 and Production Operator with the lowest at $49,100.
  1. Traveling Nurse
    Average Salary: $129,730
    This role involves working for medical facilities in various locations. It offers a chance to gain experience in different settings. Travel nurses often work with companies like HealthTrust Workforce Solutions.
    Find Traveling Nurse jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  2. Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $91,873
    RNs play a crucial role in patient care. They work in hospitals and clinics, often in collaboration with doctors. The local hospitals provide many opportunities for professional growth.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  3. Speech Language Pathologist
    Average Salary: $83,904
    This profession focuses on helping individuals with communication and swallowing difficulties. Work with children and adults in schools and healthcare facilities. Local schools and therapy centers often hire SLPs.
    Find Speech Language Pathologist jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  4. Occupational Therapist
    Average Salary: $81,045
    OTs help people regain skills for daily activities. They work in rehabilitation centers and schools. Local organizations provide many opportunities for making a meaningful impact.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  5. CDL Driver
    Average Salary: $71,446
    This role involves transporting goods and materials. Drivers need a commercial driver's license (CDL). Companies like FedEx and UPS offer many driving jobs.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  6. Licensed Practical Nurse
    Average Salary: $63,060
    LPNs provide basic patient care. They work in hospitals and nursing homes. The local healthcare facilities often offer LPN training programs.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  7. General Manager
    Average Salary: $62,813
    This role involves overseeing business operations. Managers work in retail, hospitality, and other industries. Local businesses provide many opportunities to advance your career.
    Find General Manager jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  8. Technician
    Average Salary: $54,032
    Technicians work on fixing and maintaining equipment. They can specialize in fields like electronics or mechanics. Many companies need skilled technicians for various roles.
    Find Technician jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  9. Maintenance Technician
    Average Salary: $49,655
    These professionals keep facilities running smoothly. They repair and maintain equipment. Local businesses and organizations offer many job opportunities.
    Find Maintenance Technician jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  10. Production Operator
    Average Salary: $49,100
    Production operators work in manufacturing. They run machinery to produce goods. Companies in the area offer many jobs for skilled workers.
    Find Production Operator jobs in Fort Dodge, IA

What are the best paying jobs in Fort Dodge, IA without a degree?

Fort Dodge, IA, offers several high-paying jobs that do not require a college degree. Skilled positions such as Concrete Laborer and Concrete Finisher offer competitive salaries around $59,106 and $47,496 per year, respectively. These roles provide good pay and opportunities for growth in a skilled trade. Additionally, service-oriented jobs like Server, Kitchen Team Member, and Line Cook also offer substantial earnings. These positions, while not requiring a degree, can provide a rewarding career path with average salaries of $33,502, $33,291, and $29,435 per year. These jobs combine practical skills with the chance for steady income in Fort Dodge.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Fort Dodge, IA without a degree, highlighting Concrete Laborer with the highest at $59,106 and Line Cook with the lowest at $29,435.
  1. Concrete Laborer
    Average Salary: $59,106
    Helping to shape the built environment, this role involves preparing and pouring concrete. It's a hands-on job needing physical strength and attention to detail. Local construction firms hire for this role year-round.
    Find Concrete Laborer jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  2. Concrete Finisher
    Average Salary: $47,496
    This position focuses on finishing and smoothing concrete surfaces. It demands precision and skill. Construction projects often require these workers. Companies in the area provide training for this role.
    Find Concrete Finisher jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  3. Server
    Average Salary: $33,502
    Serving customers in a fast-paced setting, this job requires a friendly demeanor and good memory. Restaurants and cafes offer opportunities. Experience can lead to tips, boosting the earnings.
    Find Server jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  4. Kitchen Team Member
    Average Salary: $33,291
    Assisting the kitchen staff, this role supports food preparation and cooking. It's a teamwork-oriented position. Dining establishments are always on the lookout for reliable team members to join their kitchen.
    Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  5. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $29,435
    Creating dishes under pressure, line cooks prepare meals to specifications. This job demands efficiency and culinary skills. Eateries and dining services depend on these professionals to deliver meals on time.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Fort Dodge, IA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Fort Dodge, IA?

Job seekers in Fort Dodge, IA, have a variety of good options when looking for well-paying companies. K&B Transportation leads the pack, offering an average salary of $85,022. This company provides excellent compensation along with the opportunity for career growth. Following closely, Elanco offers an average salary of $75,247, making it another top choice for those seeking a lucrative job. Other notable employers in the area include Nestlé Purina, Jensen Builders, and Fort Dodge Health and Rehabilitation. These companies provide competitive salaries ranging from $69,598 to $59,890. For those in specific sectors, such as healthcare or education, Fort Dodge Health and Rehabilitation, as well as Fort Dodge Community School District, offer average salaries of $58,853 and $38,213, respectively. These figures highlight the diverse earning potential available across different industries in the city.
Graph displaying company salaries in Fort Dodge, IA, highlighting K&B Transportation with the highest at $85,022 and Fort Dodge Community School District with the lowest at $38,213.
  1. K&B Transportation
    Average Salary: $85,022
    K&B Transportation is a leading logistics company known for its excellent benefits and competitive pay. They provide a wide range of transportation services and are recognized for their commitment to employee satisfaction and growth.


  2. Elanco
    Average Salary: $75,247
    Elanco is a global leader in animal health. They offer rewarding career opportunities with a focus on innovation and sustainability. Employees enjoy a supportive work environment and attractive compensation packages.


  3. Nestlé Purina
    Average Salary: $69,598
    Nestlé Purina is a well-known pet food company providing quality products worldwide. They offer competitive salaries and are dedicated to employee development. Their benefits include health and wellness programs.


  4. Jensen Builders
    Average Salary: $59,890
    Jensen Builders is a prominent construction company that values its workforce. They offer a positive work environment and solid compensation. Career growth and safety are top priorities.


  5. Fort Dodge Health and Rehabilitation
    Average Salary: $58,853
    Fort Dodge Health and Rehabilitation provides high-quality healthcare services. They are committed to their employees' well-being, offering competitive salaries and a supportive work culture.


  6. State of Iowa
    Average Salary: $58,237
    The State of Iowa offers a variety of job opportunities with a strong focus on public service. Employees benefit from job stability, comprehensive benefits, and a good work-life balance.


  7. UnityPoint Health
    Average Salary: $53,010
    UnityPoint Health is a healthcare leader providing exceptional patient care. They offer a supportive work environment and strive for employee well-being. Their competitive salaries are part of their commitment to staff.


  8. Iowa Central Community College
    Average Salary: $52,321
    Iowa Central Community College is dedicated to education and student success. They provide a nurturing environment for staff to thrive. Competitive salaries are part of their efforts to attract top talent.


  9. Kwik Trip
    Average Salary: $38,933
    Kwik Trip is a popular retail chain offering diverse career opportunities. They focus on employee development and provide a positive work atmosphere with competitive pay.


  10. Fort Dodge Community School District
    Average Salary: $38,213
    The Fort Dodge Community School District is committed to education and student success. They offer rewarding careers with a supportive work environment. Competitive salaries are part of their commitment to staff.

How does the cost of living in Fort Dodge, IA compare to the national average?

Fort Dodge, IA, presents a cost of living that is below the nationwide average in several key areas. Housing costs 25% less than the national average, making it significantly more affordable. Additionally, groceries and utilities are 10% and 10% below the national average, respectively, which adds to the overall savings for residents. Overall, Fort Dodge's cost of living index totals 86, which is 14% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This includes lower costs for housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses. Job seekers can find Fort Dodge to be a cost-effective place to live compared to many other regions.
Cost of living comparison graph for Fort Dodge, IA vs. Nationwide: housing 25% lower, groceries 10% lower, utilities 10% lower, transportation 15% lower, healthcare 5% lower, miscellaneous 20% lower.

Fort Dodge, IA has a cost of living index that compares favorably to the nationwide average of 100. The housing index in Fort Dodge is 75, which means housing costs are 25% lower than the national average. People in Fort Dodge enjoy more affordable living spaces, making it easier to manage monthly expenses.


When considering other essentials, Fort Dodge also shows competitive numbers. The grocery index is 90, indicating that food costs are just 10% less than the national average. Utilities and transportation are nearly on par with the nation at 90 and 85, respectively. Healthcare costs in Fort Dodge are slightly above average at 95, meaning they are 5% higher. Miscellaneous expenses, which include items like clothing and entertainment, stand at 80, showing an 20% reduction from the national average. This overall picture suggests that Fort Dodge offers a balanced cost of living that may appeal to budget-conscious job seekers.

There are 239 job openings in Fort Dodge, IA, today!

Take a deeper dive into the job market in Fort Dodge, IA

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City
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Fort Dodge, IA
239 Job Openings