Salaries in Lake Charles, LA
What is the average salary in Lake Charles, LA?
Lake Charles, LA, offers a range of salary opportunities across different industries. The average salary in the area is around $53,238. This figure provides a good overview of the earning potential in the region. Salaries can vary widely depending on the job sector and experience level.
Some of the highest-paying jobs in Lake Charles include roles in management, healthcare, and engineering. For instance, managers earn an average of $127,560, while healthcare professionals can make around $109,634. Engineers also enjoy competitive salaries, with an average of $91,707. These figures show that specialized skills and higher education can lead to better-paying jobs. On the other hand, entry-level positions in retail and hospitality start at around $20,000 to $23,340. This range highlights the importance of gaining experience and advancing in one's career.
What are the best paying jobs in Lake Charles, LA?

-
Regional Manager
Average Salary: $107,772
This role involves overseeing the operations of a company's branch in the area. Managers coordinate staff, ensure smooth operations, and meet sales targets. Companies like Enterprise and local businesses offer these roles.
Find Regional Manager jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Technical Project Lead
Average Salary: $96,734
This position requires managing technical projects and teams. Leads ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. Tech firms and local businesses often hire for these roles. They focus on software development and IT solutions.
Find Technical Project Lead jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $91,731
Behavior analysts work with individuals to improve their behaviors. They create plans and monitor progress. This role is available in healthcare and educational settings. Companies like local clinics and schools offer these positions.
Find Behavior Analyst jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $89,450
These professionals help people with speech and language issues. They create treatment plans and provide therapy. Opportunities exist in hospitals and schools. Local healthcare providers often hire for these roles.
Find Speech Language Pathologist jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Dental Hygienist
Average Salary: $87,861
Dental hygienists clean teeth and educate patients on oral care. They work in dental offices and clinics. This role is essential for maintaining oral health. Local dental practices offer these positions.
Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $85,003
Sales reps sell products or services directly to customers. They build relationships and meet sales targets. This role is available in various industries. Companies like local businesses and national firms offer these positions.
Find Outside Sales Representative jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
CDL Driver
Average Salary: $81,088
CDL drivers transport goods across the state. They must follow safety regulations and deliver goods on time. This role is crucial for logistics and transportation. Local trucking companies offer these positions.
Find CDL Driver jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $74,670
RNs provide patient care and support doctors. They work in hospitals and clinics. This role is vital for healthcare. Local hospitals and healthcare facilities offer these positions.
Find Registered Nurse jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Sales Manager
Average Salary: $68,181
Sales managers oversee sales teams and strategies. They set goals and monitor performance. This role is available in various industries. Local businesses and companies offer these positions.
Find Sales Manager jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Insurance Agent
Average Salary: $58,969
Insurance agents sell insurance policies to clients. They assess needs and recommend products. This role is available in local agencies. Companies offer these positions to help clients protect their assets.
Find Insurance Agent jobs in Lake Charles, LA
What are the best paying jobs in Lake Charles, LA without a degree?

-
Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $36,080
Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth service. Work in local dining establishments.
Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Server
Average Salary: $33,171
Serve food and drinks to customers. Take orders and provide excellent service. Work in various restaurants and cafes.
Find Server jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $31,270
Cut and package meat for sale. Follow safety and hygiene standards. Work in grocery stores and butcher shops.
Find Meat Cutter jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $28,752
Maintain the grounds of parks, schools, and other properties. Perform landscaping tasks. Work for local government or private companies.
Find Groundskeeper jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Housekeeping
Average Salary: $27,594
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels, motels, and other facilities. Ensure a clean and welcoming environment. Work in various hospitality settings.
Find Housekeeping jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Service Team Member
Average Salary: $27,583
Assist customers with their needs. Provide friendly and efficient service. Work in retail and service industries.
Find Service Team Member jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Barista
Average Salary: $26,429
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers and take orders. Work in coffee shops and cafes.
Find Barista jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $25,792
Assist in food preparation and cooking. Follow recipes and kitchen safety guidelines. Work in restaurants and cafes.
Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Dishwasher
Average Salary: $25,706
Clean dishes and kitchen equipment. Ensure a clean and sanitary environment. Work in restaurants and food service establishments.
Find Dishwasher jobs in Lake Charles, LA
-
Server Assistant
Average Salary: $25,665
Support the server in delivering food and drinks. Ensure a smooth dining experience. Work in restaurants and cafes.
Find Server Assistant jobs in Lake Charles, LA
Which companies offer the top salaries in Lake Charles, LA?

-
Wynne Transport Service, Inc.
Average Salary: $159,143
Wynne Transport Service, Inc. is a leading transportation company. They offer a variety of services and have a strong reputation in the industry.
-
Bechtel
Average Salary: $107,219
Bechtel is a global engineering and construction company. They provide services in infrastructure, energy, and other sectors.
-
Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $91,373
Northrop Grumman is a defense and technology company. They work on projects for national security and aerospace.
-
Amedisys
Average Salary: $73,300
Amedisys is a home health care company. They offer a range of services to help patients recover and stay healthy at home.
-
CHRISTUS Health
Average Salary: $63,816
CHRISTUS Health is a Catholic health system. They provide a wide range of medical services to communities.
-
Ochsner Health
Average Salary: $60,446
Ochsner Health is a healthcare system. They offer medical care and services to patients in Louisiana and Mississippi.
-
Harbor Healthcare System
Average Salary: $57,939
Harbor Healthcare System provides long-term care and rehabilitation services. They focus on helping patients recover and improve their quality of life.
-
Aflac
Average Salary: $57,892
Aflac is an insurance company. They offer supplemental insurance policies to help with medical expenses.
-
Austin Industrial
Average Salary: $57,217
Austin Industrial is a manufacturing company. They produce a variety of products for different industries.
-
CVS Health
Average Salary: $57,088
CVS Health is a health services company. They operate pharmacies, health plans, and other health-related services.
How does the cost of living in Lake Charles, LA compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Lake Charles, Louisiana, presents a favorable comparison to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Lake Charles stand at 75, indicating that residents can expect to pay 25% less than the average American. This lower cost of housing can make it easier for job seekers to find affordable living arrangements, potentially freeing up more of their budget for other essential expenses.
In addition to housing, Lake Charles also offers lower costs in other areas. Groceries cost 90, which is 10% less than the national average. Utilities are priced at 95, just 5% above the average. Transportation costs are 85, meaning residents spend 15% less on getting around. Healthcare costs are 95, matching the national average, while miscellaneous expenses are 88, which is 12% below the average. Overall, Lake Charles provides a cost of living that is 8% less than the national average, making it an attractive option for those looking to manage their expenses effectively.