What is the average salary in Lake Charles, LA?
Salaries in Lake Charles, LA, vary across different job types. The average yearly salary sits around $54,417, offering a fair compensation for many roles. Some of the top-paying jobs include management, business, and financial operations, followed by computer and mathematical occupations.
Job seekers can expect different salary levels based on their industry. Here are some average salaries: management roles average $183,627 per year, while computer and mathematical jobs can reach up to $150,882 annually. Other well-paying sectors include professional and related jobs, averaging $118,136, and life, physical, and social science positions, averaging $101,764 per year. These figures show that Lake Charles offers diverse opportunities for job seekers to find roles that match their skills and career goals.
What are the best paying jobs in Lake Charles, LA?

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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $121,196
Pharmacists work in pharmacies and hospitals. They fill prescriptions and advise on their use. They also ensure medications are safe and effective. Companies like CVS and Walgreens employ many pharmacists.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $96,703
They work with patients who have communication issues. They help improve speech and language skills. They often work in healthcare settings. Employers include hospitals and rehabilitation centers.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $86,658
They transport goods across the city and beyond. They drive large trucks and follow safety rules. Companies like UPS and FedEx hire many CDL drivers.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $82,347
They sell products directly to customers. They visit businesses and build relationships. They often work for companies in various industries, like tech and manufacturing.
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Account Manager
Average Salary: $80,681
They manage client accounts and ensure customer satisfaction. They work with clients to understand their needs. Many account managers work in advertising, finance, and tech firms.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $79,820
They provide care to patients in hospitals and clinics. They work closely with doctors and other healthcare professionals. Hospitals and care facilities hire many registered nurses.
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Sales Manager
Average Salary: $72,416
They oversee sales teams and strategies. They set sales goals and develop plans. Sales managers work in various industries, from tech to retail.
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Aircraft Mechanic
Average Salary: $67,810
They repair and maintain aircraft. They perform regular inspections and maintenance. They often work for airlines or aviation maintenance companies.
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Insurance Agent
Average Salary: $63,037
They sell insurance policies to clients. They assess clients' needs and recommend plans. Insurance agents often work for insurance companies and agencies.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $58,302
They manage day-to-day operations of businesses. They ensure everything runs smoothly. They work in various settings, from restaurants to retail stores.
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What are the best paying jobs in Lake Charles, LA without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $37,443
Oversee daily operations in local restaurants. Manage staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth service flow. Companies like Cracker Barrel and local eateries offer many opportunities.
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Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $33,397
Prepare and package meat products for retail. Work in grocery stores or local butcher shops. Gain experience in food preparation and customer interaction.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $30,217
Maintain lawns and gardens for homes and businesses. Use tools to trim, plant, and ensure the property looks neat. Landscaping companies and local businesses hire for this role.
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Server
Average Salary: $29,438
Take orders, serve food, and handle payments in restaurants. Develop strong communication skills and work in a fast-paced environment. Work at places like Chili’s and Applebee’s.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $28,421
Clean and maintain hotel rooms. Ensure all areas are tidy and well-organized. This role provides steady work with hotels in the area.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $26,584
Support servers by setting up tables, clearing dishes, and refilling supplies. Work in busy restaurants and learn the ropes of the food service industry.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $26,205
Clean dishes, glasses, and utensils in a kitchen. Ensure all items are sanitized and ready for use. Opportunities exist at local eateries and cafeterias.
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Barista
Average Salary: $26,135
Prepare coffee and other beverages in coffee shops. Gain experience in customer service and food preparation. Work at popular spots like local cafes and restaurants.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $25,299
Assist in food preparation and cooking. Learn about kitchen operations and hygiene. Positions available in various dining establishments in the area.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $24,949
Prepare ingredients and cook meals in fast-paced kitchen environments. Develop skills in various cooking techniques. Work in local restaurants and cafes.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Lake Charles, LA?

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Bechtel
Average Salary: $108,033
Bechtel is a leading global engineering and construction company. They focus on complex infrastructure projects.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $92,544
Northrop Grumman is a defense contractor. They provide military technology, systems, and services.
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CHRISTUS Health
Average Salary: $78,216
CHRISTUS Health offers healthcare services. They run hospitals and clinics in the region.
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Amedisys
Average Salary: $75,815
Amedisys provides home health and hospice care. They focus on in-home patient care.
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HHS
Average Salary: $62,189
HHS is a government agency. They work to protect health and provide essential services.
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CVS Health
Average Salary: $61,430
CVS Health is a pharmacy retail and healthcare company. They offer a wide range of health services.
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Austin Industrial
Average Salary: $60,048
Austin Industrial provides industrial equipment. They serve the energy sector with high-quality products.
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Lake Charles Memorial Health System
Average Salary: $54,911
Lake Charles Memorial Health System runs a hospital. They provide comprehensive healthcare services.
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Aflac
Average Salary: $53,151
Aflac offers insurance. They provide supplemental insurance policies.
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McNeese State University
Average Salary: $52,786
McNeese State University is a higher education institution. They offer degrees in various fields.
How does the cost of living in Lake Charles, LA compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Lake Charles, Louisiana, offers several advantages when compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Lake Charles stand at 85, indicating that residents can enjoy more affordable housing options. This represents a 15% decrease from the national average, making it easier for job seekers to find reasonably priced homes or apartments.
In other categories, Lake Charles also performs well. Groceries cost 95, only 5% above the national average, which means essentials remain reasonably priced. Utilities and transportation each cost 90, also 10% below the national average. This suggests that residents will spend less on energy and commuting. Healthcare costs are at 95, matching closely with the national average, ensuring that medical expenses are not disproportionately high. Lastly, miscellaneous costs, such as entertainment and personal care, are 85, 15% lower than the national average. Overall, Lake Charles presents a more affordable lifestyle in multiple key areas.



