What is the average salary in Hays, KS?
Hays, KS, offers a variety of salary opportunities for professionals. The average yearly salary stands at $53,727. This figure reflects a competitive environment where multiple industries contribute to diverse salary ranges.
The salary distribution shows a wide range, from $23,500 to over $152,000 annually. The most common salary falls between $35,250 and $70,500. This spread means there are opportunities for entry-level positions as well as higher-paying roles. Industries like healthcare, retail, and manufacturing are some of the main contributors to this income diversity.
What are the best paying jobs in Hays, KS?

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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $84,246
A registered nurse provides care and support to patients. They work in hospitals and clinics, collaborating with doctors and other healthcare professionals. Local medical facilities offer opportunities to grow and specialize.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $63,430
Licensed practical nurses offer essential patient care under the supervision of doctors and registered nurses. They work in hospitals, nursing homes, and outpatient care centers. This role allows for direct patient interaction and personal care.
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Retail Sales Associate
Average Salary: $63,176
Retail sales associates help customers find and purchase items. They work in department stores and specialty shops, providing excellent customer service. This role offers a dynamic environment and opportunities for growth in customer relations.
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Case Manager
Average Salary: $50,688
Case managers coordinate care for patients with complex needs. They work with healthcare providers, social workers, and families. This position involves advocacy and planning to ensure patients receive appropriate care.
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Delivery Driver
Average Salary: $42,156
Delivery drivers transport goods and packages to customers. They work for courier companies, grocery stores, and restaurants. This job offers flexibility and the chance to interact with the community while on the road.
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Certified Nursing Assistant
Average Salary: $38,800
Certified nursing assistants provide basic patient care under the supervision of licensed nurses. They work in hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare settings. This role offers direct patient interaction and hands-on care.
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Cook
Average Salary: $34,606
Cooks prepare meals in restaurants, schools, and healthcare facilities. They follow recipes and ensure food quality. This role involves creativity and teamwork to create delicious and nutritious dishes for patrons.
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Merchandiser
Average Salary: $33,539
Merchandisers arrange and display products in retail stores. They work for supermarkets, boutiques, and department stores. This role involves visual merchandising and ensuring a welcoming shopping environment.
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Customer Service Representative
Average Salary: $29,511
Customer service representatives assist customers with inquiries and concerns. They work in call centers or at retail locations. This role involves problem-solving and communication to ensure customer satisfaction.
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Team Member
Average Salary: $28,875
Team members support various roles within a company. They work in restaurants, retail stores, and service industries. This position offers a chance to develop skills and advance in different sectors.
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What are the best paying jobs in Hays, KS without a degree?

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Server
Average Salary: $31,934
This role involves serving food and drinks to customers in various establishments. The position requires excellent customer service skills and the ability to work under pressure. Many restaurants in Hays offer this opportunity, where you can gain valuable experience in the hospitality industry.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $29,828
Service team members handle various tasks to ensure customers have a pleasant dining experience. They may take orders, serve food, and clean up tables. This job offers flexibility and can be found in many local dining establishments. It’s a great way to start a career in food service.
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Barista
Average Salary: $29,728
A barista prepares and serves coffee and other beverages. This role requires attention to detail and a friendly demeanor. Local cafes often seek baristas to help create a welcoming atmosphere for customers. This job offers the chance to learn about different types of coffee and improve your customer service skills.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $28,723
Line cooks work in fast-paced kitchen environments. They prepare ingredients and cook food quickly and efficiently. This role is essential for the smooth operation of the kitchen. Experience in this position can lead to advancements in the culinary field. Many local restaurants hire line cooks to join their team.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $26,423
Dishwasher roles involve cleaning dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. This job requires hard work and attention to detail. It is a vital part of any kitchen operation. This position is available in many local restaurants and food service businesses. It offers the chance to gain experience in the food industry and learn about kitchen operations.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $25,697
Housekeeping roles focus on keeping public spaces clean and orderly. This job involves cleaning rooms, common areas, and maintaining a tidy environment. It is crucial for the overall guest experience. Many hotels and motels in the area hire housekeepers to maintain high standards. This role offers flexibility and the chance to work in various environments.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $24,998
Server assistants support the main server by handling various tasks. They may bus tables, refill condiments, and assist with customer service. This role is ideal for those looking to enter the food service industry. Many local restaurants value the support of server assistants to improve their service efficiency.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $24,000
Kitchen team members assist in various kitchen duties. They help with food preparation, cooking, and cleaning. This job is perfect for those interested in learning about culinary skills. Local restaurants often hire kitchen team members to support their operations and improve kitchen efficiency.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Hays, KS?

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High Plains Mental Health Center
Average Salary: $52,744
High Plains Mental Health Center provides mental health services to communities in northwest Kansas. They offer a range of programs to support individuals with mental health challenges.
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HaysMed
Average Salary: $50,382
HaysMed is a leading healthcare provider in Hays, KS. They offer various medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments.
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KVC Health Systems
Average Salary: $42,697
KVC Health Systems provides healthcare and community-based services for children and families. They focus on mental health, child welfare, and education.
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Applebee's
Average Salary: $40,190
Applebee's is a well-known casual dining restaurant chain. They offer a variety of American dishes and have a lively, friendly atmosphere.
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Developmental Services of Northwest Kansas (DSNWK)
Average Salary: $34,704
DSNWK provides services for individuals with developmental disabilities. Their programs aim to enhance the quality of life for their clients and their families.
How does the cost of living in Hays, KS compare to the national average?

Hays, KS, presents a cost of living that is notably different from the nationwide average. This difference is especially clear when looking at the housing index. In Hays, housing costs are about 76 on the index scale, which is significantly lower than the average of 100. Job seekers may find that their housing expenses are 24% less than in many other parts of the country. This makes Hays an attractive option for those looking to save on their living expenses.
In other areas, Hays also shows lower costs compared to the national average. The grocery index is 91, meaning groceries are 9% cheaper than average. Utilities are just slightly above average at 97, which is only 3% higher. Transportation costs are around 85 on the index, making them 15% less expensive. These lower costs in everyday expenses help to offset the overall cost of living. Additionally, healthcare and miscellaneous costs are close to the national average, with healthcare at 91 and miscellaneous at 88, each only 1% to 2% lower. These details present an overall picture of a more affordable living experience in Hays, KS.



