What is the average salary in Oak Ridge, TN?
Oak Ridge, Tennessee offers a variety of job opportunities across different sectors. The average yearly salary in the area is approximately $59,861. This figure represents the middle point of the income range, with some earning more and some earning less. The salary landscape includes several sectors, each with its own range of earnings.
Key industries in Oak Ridge include the federal government, research facilities, and technology firms. Top earners can find positions in scientific research and engineering, where salaries can exceed $100,000 annually. Jobs in the healthcare and education sectors also provide competitive pay, with many roles offering salaries around $50,000 to $70,000 per year. Additionally, administrative and support roles are present, with earnings typically falling between $20,000 and $40,000 per year.
What are the best paying jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

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Mechanical Engineer
Average Salary: $117,338
Mechanical engineers create and improve machines. They work with teams to design systems. Companies in Oak Ridge, TN, focus on technology and research.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $74,238
RNs provide care for patients. They work in hospitals and clinics. Oak Ridge offers many healthcare opportunities.
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Retail Sales Associate
Average Salary: $70,127
Sales associates help customers find products. They work in stores. Oak Ridge has various retail options.
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Support Specialist
Average Salary: $60,963
Support specialists help with technical issues. They work for companies that need tech support. They assist customers and solve problems.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $57,312
LPNs provide basic medical care. They work in hospitals and clinics. Oak Ridge offers many healthcare positions.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $50,508
Managers oversee daily operations. They manage staff and ensure customer satisfaction. Oak Ridge has a growing dining scene.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $49,700
General managers lead teams in various settings. They handle budgets and operations. Oak Ridge offers many management roles.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $42,058
Technicians fix and maintain equipment. They work in many settings. Oak Ridge has many opportunities in this field.
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Medical Assistant
Average Salary: $37,045
Assistants support doctors and nurses. They handle paperwork and patient care. Oak Ridge has many healthcare jobs.
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Direct Support Professional
Average Salary: $36,397
DSPs assist people with disabilities. They provide daily support. Oak Ridge has many DSP roles in care settings.
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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: $48,910
Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff, ensure customer satisfaction, and handle inventory. Work in places like local eateries and cafes.
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Server
Average Salary: $34,793
Serve food and drinks to customers in a dining establishment. Take orders, process payments, and ensure a pleasant dining experience. Many opportunities in local restaurants and cafes.
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Barista
Average Salary: $32,203
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Manage inventory, clean equipment, and provide a friendly service. Positions available in local coffee shops and cafes.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $31,696
Maintain the grounds of properties. Perform tasks like mowing lawns, trimming shrubs, and cleaning walkways. Work for local businesses, schools, and government agencies.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $30,133
Clean and maintain the cleanliness of rooms in hotels, motels, or other lodging facilities. Ensure a tidy environment for guests. Job opportunities in various local hotels and motels.
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Lawn Care Technician
Average Salary: $30,075
Maintain lawns and gardens for residential or commercial properties. Perform tasks like mowing, edging, and trimming. Work for local landscaping companies.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $29,467
Wash dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Ensure a clean and orderly kitchen. Found in many local restaurants and cafes.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $28,636
Prepare ingredients and cook food in large quantities. Work in a fast-paced environment. Opportunities in local restaurants and cafes.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $27,645
Serve customers by preparing and serving food and drinks. Ensure a pleasant dining experience. Work in various local restaurants and cafes.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Oak Ridge, TN?

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GEM Technology
Average Salary: $135,727
GEM Technology works in IT and engineering. They offer good benefits and chances to grow.
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X-Energy
Average Salary: $125,449
X-Energy focuses on energy solutions. They provide competitive pay and a dynamic work environment.
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Cognitive Medical Systems
Average Salary: $122,291
Cognitive Medical Systems develops medical technologies. They value innovation and employee development.
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Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Average Salary: $120,901
Oak Ridge National Laboratory conducts scientific research. It offers many opportunities for learning and advancement.
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Akima
Average Salary: $103,415
Akima provides support services to various government agencies. They offer good benefits and job stability.
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Bechtel
Average Salary: $101,202
Bechtel is a global engineering and construction company. They offer competitive pay and a wide range of projects.
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SAIC
Average Salary: $71,729
SAIC works in engineering and technology. They offer good benefits and many opportunities for growth.
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OAK RIDGE SCHOOLS
Average Salary: $57,425
OAK RIDGE SCHOOLS provide educational services. They offer stable employment and a positive work culture.
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Professional Case Management
Average Salary: $57,084
Professional Case Management helps with healthcare coordination. They offer good benefits and a supportive environment.
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CoorsTek
Average Salary: $44,650
CoorsTek manufactures ceramic materials. They offer a stable job with good potential for growth.
How does the cost of living in Oak Ridge, TN compare to the national average?

Oak Ridge, TN, offers a cost of living that is generally lower than the nationwide average. The housing index stands at 80, which is 20% lower than the national average of 100. This suggests that housing expenses in Oak Ridge are more affordable compared to other areas in the country. The lower cost of housing can make it an attractive option for job seekers looking for a more budget-friendly place to live.
In addition to housing, Oak Ridge's overall cost of living remains competitive. The transportation index is at 85, which is 15% below the national average. Groceries cost 95, which is just 5% below the average, making everyday essentials relatively comparable to other areas. Utilities and miscellaneous expenses also track close to the national average, at 90 and 92 respectively. Healthcare costs remain consistent with the national average of 100, ensuring that essential services do not come at a higher price. Overall, Oak Ridge provides a blend of lower housing costs and comparable expenses in other key areas, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a cost-effective living environment.



