What is the average salary in Portage, MI?
Portage, MI offers a diverse job market with competitive salaries across different sectors. The average yearly salary in this area stands at $49,712. This figure reflects a mix of opportunities in various industries, ensuring that professionals can find positions that match their skills and career aspirations.
Jobs in Portage provide substantial salaries, especially in the top-paying sectors. For instance, roles in the highest salary bracket earn around $160,000 per year. Below are some of the sectors with the highest earnings: finance, engineering, IT, healthcare, and management. Job seekers can expect to find rewarding opportunities that offer not only good pay but also potential for career growth.
What are the best paying jobs in Portage, MI?

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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $89,712
In this role, professionals care for patients and assist doctors. Key employers include local hospitals and clinics, offering a rewarding career with many opportunities for advancement.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $69,524
LPNs provide basic patient care and support doctors and RNs. They work in hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. This role offers stability and good pay.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $64,296
General Managers oversee daily operations in retail stores and restaurants. They manage staff and ensure smooth business operations. This role is ideal for those looking for leadership positions.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $47,187
Maintenance Technicians ensure equipment and facilities run smoothly. They work in manufacturing plants and other industrial settings. This role offers steady employment and the chance to use hands-on skills.
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Retail Sales Associate
Average Salary: $46,322
Retail Sales Associates help customers find products. They work in stores and provide excellent customer service. This job is great for those who enjoy interacting with people.
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Customer Service Representative
Average Salary: $40,581
CSRs assist customers with inquiries and complaints. They work in call centers and offices. This role requires strong communication skills and the ability to problem-solve.
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Delivery Driver
Average Salary: $39,900
Delivery Drivers transport goods to customers. They work for local businesses and logistics companies. This job is ideal for those who enjoy driving and meeting new people.
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Material Handler
Average Salary: $38,346
Material Handlers move materials and products within a facility. They work in warehouses and manufacturing plants. This role involves physical work and attention to detail.
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Store Manager
Average Salary: $38,192
Store Managers run retail stores. They manage staff, handle inventory, and ensure customer satisfaction. This position offers good pay and the chance to manage a team.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $35,727
Housekeeping staff maintain cleanliness in hotels and other facilities. They ensure rooms and common areas are tidy. This job is perfect for those who value a clean and organized environment.
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What are the best paying jobs in Portage, MI without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $51,347
Manage daily restaurant operations. Oversee staff and ensure a great customer experience. Work in a bustling city environment.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $41,143
Install, maintain, and repair irrigation systems. Work outdoors to improve landscaping. Collaborate with local landscape companies.
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Powder Coater
Average Salary: $38,794
Apply powder coatings to various surfaces. Work in industrial settings to enhance product finishes. Collaborate with local manufacturing firms.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $35,727
Clean and maintain hotel rooms. Ensure a clean and welcoming environment for guests. Work in local hotels and motels.
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Server
Average Salary: $34,017
Take orders and serve food and drinks. Interact with customers to provide excellent service. Work in busy restaurants and cafes.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $33,448
Assist in food preparation and kitchen tasks. Work in a fast-paced kitchen environment. Support local eateries and restaurants.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $33,069
Handle customer service in a retail setting. Provide assistance and ensure customer satisfaction. Work in local stores and shops.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $32,537
Prepare food in fast-paced kitchen environments. Work in teams to meet customer demands. Collaborate in local restaurants and cafes.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $31,879
Maintain and beautify outdoor spaces. Work outdoors to improve landscapes and gardens. Collaborate with local landscaping firms.
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Barista
Average Salary: $30,926
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers to provide excellent service. Work in local cafes and coffee shops.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Portage, MI?

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Stryker
Average Salary: $108,723
Stryker leads in medical technologies. They offer jobs in engineering, sales, and manufacturing. The company pays well and has a great reputation.
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Kalamazoo RESA
Average Salary: $51,675
Kalamazoo RESA provides emergency services. They hire EMTs, paramedics, and dispatchers. It is a stable job with good benefits.
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Summit Polymers
Average Salary: $42,732
Summit Polymers makes plastic parts for many industries. They offer jobs in production, quality control, and engineering. It’s a good place to learn the trade.
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Brightview
Average Salary: $39,921
Brightview provides landscaping services. They hire for roles like groundskeeping and horticulture. It’s a job that involves working outdoors.
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Bob Evans Restaurants
Average Salary: $36,654
Bob Evans serves classic American food. They hire for servers, cooks, and managers. It’s a great place to learn about customer service.
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Brookdale Senior Living
Average Salary: $35,125
Brookdale offers senior living and care. They hire caregivers, nurses, and activities directors. It’s a job that helps others and requires compassion.
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Meijer
Average Salary: $32,292
Meijer is a supermarket chain. They offer jobs in retail, management, and logistics. It’s a stable job with many opportunities for growth.
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Burlington Stores
Average Salary: $31,500
Burlington sells clothing and home goods. They hire for sales, management, and supply chain roles. It’s a job that involves helping customers.
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StoryPoint
Average Salary: $30,758
StoryPoint offers skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. They hire nurses, therapists, and aides. It’s a job that makes a difference in people’s lives.
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ComForCare
Average Salary: $28,731
ComForCare provides in-home care services. They hire caregivers and nurses. It’s a job that allows you to work one-on-one with clients.
How does the cost of living in Portage, MI compare to the national average?

Job seekers considering a move to Portage, MI, will find the cost of living to be relatively affordable compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Portage are notably lower, sitting at 75. This means residents can expect to spend 25% less on housing compared to the national average. The lower housing costs can be a significant benefit, freeing up more of a budget for other living expenses.
Other categories also show a favorable comparison to the national average. Groceries in Portage are priced at 90, suggesting an 10% increase over the national average. Utilities, at 95, are nearly on par with the national average, with only a 5% increase. Transportation costs are slightly lower than the national average at 85, indicating a 15% savings. Healthcare costs in Portage match the national average at 100, offering no change in expenses. Miscellaneous costs are at 80, which reflects a 20% decrease from the national average. Overall, job seekers can anticipate manageable living expenses in Portage, with several categories offering savings compared to the nationwide figures.



