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What is the average salary in Kelso, WA?

The average salary in Kelso, WA is $49,445 per year.

Kelso, WA offers a range of salary opportunities across different industries. The average yearly salary in Kelso is $49,445. This figure reflects the diverse job market available to residents. The salary distribution shows a mix of lower and higher-paying jobs, providing options for various skill levels and career stages.


The salary distribution in Kelso includes several sectors. The largest percentage, 38.49%, falls within the $41,200 to $48,580 range. This is followed by 28.88% of jobs offering salaries between $33,820 and $41,200. Other notable segments include 7.70% of jobs paying $48,580 to $55,960 and 4.09% offering $55,960 to $63,340. These figures show a balanced distribution, with many jobs offering competitive pay.

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What are the best paying jobs in Kelso, WA?

Job seekers in Kelso, WA, can find rewarding opportunities in various fields. One of the top-paying jobs in the area is that of a Packer. Packers earn an average salary of $41,057 annually. This role is crucial for ensuring products are packaged correctly for shipping and storage. Packers work in warehouses, factories, and other industrial settings. They must be detail-oriented and able to work efficiently. This job offers a stable income with potential for growth. Those interested in this field can benefit from on-the-job training and experience.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Kelso, WA, highlighting Packer with the highest at $41,057 and Packer with the lowest at $41,057.
  1. Packer
    Average Salary: $41,057
    This role involves packaging products for shipping. It requires attention to detail and the ability to work quickly. Companies in the area, such as food processing plants, often need packers. The work is steady and can be a good fit for those who enjoy a hands-on job.
    Find Packer jobs in Kelso, WA

What are the best paying jobs in Kelso, WA without a degree?

Job seekers in Kelso, WA, can find good-paying jobs without needing a degree. Loaders earn the highest average salary of $41,750. Baristas, dishwashers, and servers also offer solid incomes, with average salaries around $35,000 to $37,000. These roles provide opportunities for those looking to start or advance in their careers without formal education.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Kelso, WA without a degree, highlighting Loader with the highest at $41,750 and Server with the lowest at $35,259.
  1. Loader
    Average Salary: $41,750
    Loaders work in warehouses and distribution centers. They handle goods and materials. This job involves lifting and moving items. Companies like Amazon and local businesses offer these positions.
    Find Loader jobs in Kelso, WA


  2. Barista
    Average Salary: $36,592
    Baristas work in coffee shops and cafes. They prepare coffee and other drinks. This role requires customer service skills. Local cafes like Starbucks and independent shops hire baristas.
    Find Barista jobs in Kelso, WA


  3. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $35,271
    Dishwasher work in restaurants and food service. They clean dishes and kitchen tools. This job involves standing and working in a fast-paced environment. Restaurants like local diners and chains hire dishwashers.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Kelso, WA


  4. Server
    Average Salary: $35,259
    Servers work in restaurants and cafes. They take orders and serve food. This role requires good communication skills. Local restaurants and cafes hire servers.
    Find Server jobs in Kelso, WA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Kelso, WA?

Job seekers in Kelso, WA, can find competitive salaries at various companies. Cowlitz County offers the highest average salary at $69,935. This makes it a top choice for those seeking well-paying opportunities. Foster Farms also provides a solid average salary of $45,106, while Panera Bread offers an average salary of $39,297. These companies provide a range of opportunities for those looking to advance their careers in Kelso. Cowlitz County, with its higher salary, may attract those seeking more senior roles. Foster Farms and Panera Bread offer good compensation for various positions, making them attractive options for many job seekers.
Graph displaying company salaries in Kelso, WA, highlighting Cowlitz County with the highest at $69,935 and Panera Bread with the lowest at $39,297.
  1. Cowlitz County
    Average Salary: $69,935
    Cowlitz County offers a variety of jobs in public service, healthcare, and education. Employees benefit from a competitive salary and a range of benefits. The county is committed to providing a supportive work environment.


  2. Foster Farms
    Average Salary: $45,106
    Foster Farms is a leading poultry producer with several positions available in Kelso. Workers enjoy a stable salary and opportunities for career growth. The company values teamwork and offers a positive work culture.


  3. Panera Bread
    Average Salary: $39,297
    Panera Bread provides a welcoming atmosphere for those in the food service industry. Employees receive a fair salary and the chance to work in a fast-paced environment. The company emphasizes customer service and team collaboration.

How does the cost of living in Kelso, WA compare to the national average?

The cost of living index in Kelso, WA, shows a generally lower cost compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Kelso are 5% below the national average, while groceries and healthcare are slightly below at 2% and 3%, respectively. Utilities match the national average, but transportation costs are 8% lower, and miscellaneous expenses are 6% lower. This data suggests that living in Kelso can be more affordable in several key areas.
Cost of living comparison graph for Kelso, WA vs. Nationwide: housing 5% lower, groceries 2% lower, utilities 0% lower, transportation 8% lower, healthcare 3% lower, miscellaneous 6% lower.

The cost of living in Kelso, WA, presents a favorable comparison to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Kelso stand at 95, indicating that residents spend 5% less on housing compared to the average American. This slight reduction can make housing more affordable for those relocating to the area.


Additionally, the grocery index in Kelso is at 98, which means that groceries cost 2% less than the national average. Utilities in Kelso are on par with the national average, with an index of 100, suggesting no significant difference in cost. Transportation costs are slightly lower, with an index of 92, meaning residents spend 8% less on transportation. Healthcare costs in Kelso are 97, indicating a 3% savings compared to the national average. Miscellaneous expenses also show a slight decrease, with an index of 94, meaning residents spend 6% less on other goods and services. Overall, Kelso offers a cost of living that is competitive and often more affordable than the national average.

There are 150 job openings in Kelso, WA, today!

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City
Overview
Kelso, WA
150 Job Openings