What is the average salary in Fort Dodge, IA?
Salaries in Fort Dodge, IA, offer a range of opportunities for job seekers. The average yearly salary stands at $58,674. This figure reflects a diverse economic landscape with many industries contributing to the local economy. For those seeking employment, understanding salary ranges can be a key factor in career decisions.
Different sectors have different salary expectations. For instance, jobs in education and healthcare often offer solid incomes. Positions in retail and food service tend to be on the lower end of the pay scale. Other industries like manufacturing and engineering provide more competitive salaries. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers target roles that match their expectations and career goals. A thorough review of local salary data can guide more informed decisions and potentially lead to better job matches.
What are the best paying jobs in Fort Dodge, IA?

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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $129,140
Flexibility and adventure await. Work in various locations, gaining diverse experiences. Employers include local clinics and hospitals.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $89,635
Play a key role in patient care. Ensure well-being in hospitals and clinics. Employers include prominent healthcare facilities.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $84,923
Help individuals with communication needs. Work in schools, clinics, or rehabilitation centers. Collaborate with diverse teams.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $81,910
Assist patients in regaining independence. Focus on recovery and skill development. Opportunities in hospitals and outpatient clinics.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $76,366
Drive heavy vehicles safely. Responsible for transporting goods. Work for local logistics and transportation companies.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $61,679
Oversee daily operations. Ensure smooth business functioning. Opportunities in retail, restaurants, and hotels.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $58,112
Provide basic medical care. Work closely with registered nurses and doctors. Positions available in hospitals and clinics.
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Technician
Average Salary: $53,184
Handle technical tasks and equipment. Ensure everything runs smoothly. Work in manufacturing and maintenance sectors.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $48,595
Perform repairs and maintenance. Keep facilities and equipment in top condition. Roles in various industries like retail and hospitality.
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Retail Sales Associate
Average Salary: $47,897
Assist customers and manage sales. Create a positive shopping experience. Opportunities in various retail stores.
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What are the best paying jobs in Fort Dodge, IA without a degree?

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Concrete Laborer
Average Salary: $67,880
In this role, tasks include preparing and pouring concrete. Workers help with formwork and maintain tools. They often work with companies involved in building infrastructure.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $48,790
This position involves smoothing and finishing concrete. Workers use tools to level the surface. They often collaborate with construction companies on various projects.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $33,291
These workers assist in food preparation and kitchen operations. Tasks include chopping ingredients and maintaining cleanliness. They often support local restaurants and cafes.
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Server
Average Salary: $33,256
Servers take orders and serve food and drinks to customers. They ensure a pleasant dining experience. This role is available in many restaurants within the city.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $29,057
These professionals clean and maintain guest rooms and public areas. They are vital in hospitality businesses. They often work in hotels and motels in the area.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $29,000
Line cooks prepare food quickly and efficiently. They follow recipes and maintain kitchen hygiene. They work in fast-paced environments in various dining establishments.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Fort Dodge, IA?

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Elanco
Average Salary: $73,392
Elanco is a global leader in animal health. It offers a wide range of products and services to improve the health and well-being of animals. The company values innovation and sustainability.
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Nestlé Purina
Average Salary: $69,198
Nestlé Purina is a well-known pet care company. It provides high-quality pet food and care products. The company is committed to enhancing the health and happiness of pets.
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Jensen Builders
Average Salary: $62,877
Jensen Builders specializes in commercial and residential construction. It offers a variety of services, from new builds to renovations. The company prides itself on quality and reliability.
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Fort Dodge Health and Rehabilitation
Average Salary: $59,313
Fort Dodge Health and Rehabilitation provides long-term care and rehabilitation services. It focuses on patient care and well-being, offering a supportive environment for recovery.
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City of Fort Dodge
Average Salary: $59,092
The City of Fort Dodge offers a variety of public service jobs. It focuses on community development and public safety. The city is known for its friendly community and quality of life.
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State of Iowa
Average Salary: $58,306
The State of Iowa offers numerous job opportunities in different sectors. It emphasizes public service and state management. The state values professionalism and dedication.
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Iowa Central Community College
Average Salary: $53,285
Iowa Central Community College provides education and training programs. It focuses on student success and community engagement. The college offers a range of courses and support services.
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UnityPoint Health
Average Salary: $51,964
UnityPoint Health is a healthcare organization. It offers a wide range of medical services. The company is dedicated to improving health and wellness in the community.
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CJ Bio America Inc.
Average Salary: $46,649
CJ Bio America Inc. specializes in the production of specialty chemicals and ingredients. It focuses on innovation and quality. The company is a leader in its industry.
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Bickford Senior Living
Average Salary: $43,503
Bickford Senior Living provides assisted living and memory care services. It focuses on creating a comfortable and engaging environment for seniors. The company is committed to high-quality care.
How does the cost of living in Fort Dodge, IA compare to the national average?

Job seekers considering Fort Dodge, Iowa, will find the cost of living index offers a favorable comparison to the nationwide average. The cost of living index in Fort Dodge stands at 84. This means expenses are generally 16% lower than the national average, which is set at 100. Lower housing costs are a significant factor, with the housing index at 75. This suggests residents can find housing that is 25% more affordable than the national average.
When looking at specific categories, Fort Dodge provides competitive advantages in various areas. For instance, groceries cost 10% less than the national average, with an index of 90. Utilities and transportation also show lower costs at 85 and 80, respectively. Healthcare, while slightly above the national average at 95, still presents a more affordable option in many cases. Miscellaneous costs, with an index of 88, reflect a cost slightly below the national average. Overall, Fort Dodge offers a cost of living that can help job seekers stretch their budgets further.



