What is the average salary in Oak Ridge, TN?
Job seekers in Oak Ridge, TN, can find a variety of salary levels across different industries. With an average yearly salary of $60,466, the area offers competitive pay. This average helps people understand what they might earn in this location.
The salary distribution shows a range of earnings. Most jobs fall between $23,000 and $109,727 per year. Specific industries offer even higher salaries. For example, some roles in research and science can reach up to $182,000 annually. This variety means there are good opportunities for those with different skill sets and experience levels.
What are the best paying jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

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Mechanical Engineer
Average Salary: $118,239
This role focuses on designing, developing, and maintaining machinery and tools. Companies such as Lockheed Martin and Y-12 National Security Complex offer growth opportunities. Engineers collaborate with teams to ensure quality and efficiency.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $74,419
RNs provide patient care and support in medical facilities. With hospitals and clinics hiring, these professionals play a vital role in the community. They work closely with doctors to ensure patients receive the best care.
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Retail Sales Associate
Average Salary: $71,967
This position involves selling products to customers in stores. Companies like Walmart and Kroger offer competitive pay and benefits. Associates engage with customers to provide excellent service and boost sales.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $57,818
LPNs assist with patient care under the supervision of doctors and RNs. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. LPNs provide essential support to medical staff and patients.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $52,045
Managers oversee restaurant operations to ensure smooth service. They handle staff, manage inventory, and engage with customers. In Oak Ridge, managers can work for popular chains and local eateries.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $50,244
General Managers run businesses, ensuring efficiency and profitability. They oversee staff, handle finances, and ensure customer satisfaction. These roles are available in various industries, including retail and hospitality.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $41,758
Technicians repair and maintain equipment to keep operations running smoothly. They work in manufacturing plants and commercial properties. Technicians play a crucial role in preventing downtime and ensuring productivity.
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Delivery Driver
Average Salary: $38,696
Drivers transport goods and services to customers. Companies like FedEx and UPS offer delivery positions. Drivers must navigate routes efficiently and ensure timely deliveries.
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Medical Assistant
Average Salary: $37,507
Assistants support doctors and nurses with patient care and administrative tasks. They work in clinics and hospitals. Medical Assistants help ensure smooth operations and provide quality care to patients.
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Direct Support Professional
Average Salary: $36,280
Professionals assist individuals with disabilities in their daily lives. They work in group homes and community settings. DSPs provide essential support and help individuals achieve their goals.
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What are the best paying jobs in Oak Ridge, TN without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $50,123
Oversee daily operations at local eateries. Manage staff and ensure customer satisfaction. Work for top chains and independent restaurants.
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Server
Average Salary: $35,849
Serve food and drinks to customers in dining areas. Take orders and deliver food promptly. Job roles at family-style and casual dining establishments.
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Barista
Average Salary: $32,688
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Work with different coffee machines. Found in local cafes and restaurants.
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Lawn Care Technician
Average Salary: $30,100
Maintain lawns by mowing, trimming, and applying treatments. Work in residential and commercial settings. Roles with landscaping companies.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $29,746
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels and motels. Ensure a welcoming environment for guests. Work for hotel chains and motels.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $29,567
Clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Ensure a spotless kitchen. Roles at local restaurants and cafes.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $29,333
Prepare ingredients and cook food in bulk. Work in a fast-paced kitchen. Found at fast food and casual dining establishments.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $27,645
Assist customers with various services. Provide quality service to enhance customer experience. Positions at retail stores and service centers.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Oak Ridge, TN?

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X-Energy
Average Salary: $125,429
X-Energy is a leading nuclear energy company. They focus on developing advanced nuclear reactors. They offer competitive pay and benefits.
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Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Average Salary: $124,140
Oak Ridge National Laboratory is a federal science and technology lab. It works on energy, national security, and environmental research. They provide excellent salaries and career growth.
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Amentum
Average Salary: $123,681
Amentum provides professional services to federal agencies. They work in areas like health, defense, and security. They offer good pay and benefits.
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Cognitive Medical Systems
Average Salary: $122,951
Cognitive Medical Systems focuses on healthcare technology. They develop tools for hospitals and clinics. They offer competitive salaries and a positive work environment.
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Bechtel
Average Salary: $103,683
Bechtel is a global engineering and construction company. They work on infrastructure and technology projects. They offer good pay and career opportunities.
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SAIC
Average Salary: $65,428
SAIC provides technology and management services to government agencies. They work on defense, security, and infrastructure. They offer decent pay and benefits.
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OAK RIDGE SCHOOLS
Average Salary: $60,456
OAK RIDGE SCHOOLS offer education services in Oak Ridge. They provide quality education to students. They offer fair salaries for educators.
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Professional Case Management
Average Salary: $58,882
Professional Case Management helps people with health and social needs. They provide support and resources. They offer decent pay for their services.
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CoorsTek
Average Salary: $46,827
CoorsTek manufactures ceramic components. They work in aerospace and industrial markets. They offer fair pay and benefits.
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Covenant Health
Average Salary: $42,918
Covenant Health provides healthcare services. They run hospitals and clinics. They offer fair pay and a supportive work environment.
How does the cost of living in Oak Ridge, TN compare to the national average?

Oak Ridge, TN, presents a cost of living that is slightly lower than the nationwide average. The cost of living index in Oak Ridge stands at 91. This means that overall expenses are 9% lower compared to the average U.S. city, where the cost of living is set at 100. This difference can be significant for job seekers, as it translates to potentially lower living expenses, which can be especially beneficial for housing, transportation, and miscellaneous costs.
Breaking down the specific categories, housing in Oak Ridge shows a cost of 85, which is 15% below the national average. This presents a considerable savings opportunity for those considering relocating to Oak Ridge. Groceries follow closely with an index of 95, reflecting just 5% below the average. Utilities are at 90, which is a 10% decrease, and transportation also stands at 95, which is only 5% lower. Healthcare costs remain the same as the national average, at 100, ensuring no additional burden in this area. Miscellaneous expenses are at 92, showing a minor 8% reduction. Overall, these figures provide a solid financial advantage for those considering a move to Oak Ridge.



