What is the average salary in Waterloo, IA?
Waterloo, IA, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. With an average yearly salary of $54,652, job seekers can find competitive wages. Most people earn between $47,936 and $83,091. This makes it a good place for those looking for steady income.
Here are some of the top industries and their average salaries in Waterloo:
- Business and financial operations: $129,964
- Computer and mathematical occupations: $118,245
- Management, professional, and related occupations: $106,527
- Healthcare practitioners and technical occupations: $71,373
- Life, physical, and social science occupations: $59,655
What are the best paying jobs in Waterloo, IA?

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Radiologic Technologist
Average Salary: $132,869
This role requires using imaging equipment to take X-rays and MRIs. It ensures accurate diagnostics. Key employers include local hospitals and clinics.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $114,058
Traveling nurses provide medical care in different locations. They work in various settings, from hospitals to clinics. Companies like Mayo Clinic offer such roles.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $87,578
This job involves visiting clients to sell products. It requires good communication skills. Companies like John Deere and Vermeer offer such positions.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $85,534
Registered nurses offer patient care and support. They work in hospitals and home health settings. Employers include UnityPoint Health and local clinics.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $78,911
CDL drivers operate large vehicles to transport goods. They follow safety rules. Employers include CRST and UPS.
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Manufacturing Engineer
Average Salary: $76,528
This role involves designing and overseeing production processes. It requires technical skills. Companies like John Deere and Vermeer offer such jobs.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $72,713
LPNs provide basic patient care. They work in various healthcare settings. Employers include local hospitals and care facilities.
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Production Supervisor
Average Salary: $68,525
This position involves overseeing manufacturing operations. Supervisors ensure efficiency and safety. Key employers include John Deere and Vermeer.
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Retail Sales Associate
Average Salary: $58,295
Sales associates help customers find products. They work in various retail stores. Companies like Hy-Vee and Walmart offer such roles.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $56,092
General managers oversee store operations. They ensure smooth running and customer satisfaction. Positions exist in retail and restaurants.
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What are the best paying jobs in Waterloo, IA without a degree?

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Lawn Care Technician
Average Salary: $42,167
Care for outdoor spaces and gardens. You'll work with equipment to maintain lawns and flower beds. Companies like local landscapers and property management firms offer these roles.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $36,458
Design and build beautiful outdoor areas. You'll create gardens and plant trees. Many local landscapers and gardening businesses are hiring.
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Server
Average Salary: $34,428
Serve food and drinks to customers. You'll take orders and ensure tables are clean. Restaurants and cafes in the area offer these positions.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $33,796
Maintain outdoor areas of buildings. This involves mowing, trimming, and cleaning. Schools, parks, and golf courses offer these jobs.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $32,970
Prepare food quickly in a restaurant. You'll work in a fast-paced kitchen. Local restaurants and cafes need skilled cooks.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $31,138
Clean rooms and common areas. You'll ensure spaces are tidy and comfortable. Hotels and motels offer these positions.
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Barista
Average Salary: $29,646
Make coffee and other drinks. You'll serve customers with a smile. Coffee shops and cafes are always looking for baristas.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $28,771
Clean dishes and kitchen tools. You'll work in a busy kitchen. Restaurants and food service spots offer these roles.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Waterloo, IA?

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Roehl Transport
Average Salary: $82,283
Roehl Transport is a family-owned trucking company. They offer great benefits and career opportunities.
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John Deere
Average Salary: $71,136
John Deere is a global leader in agriculture and construction equipment. They provide stable jobs and good pay.
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Kyyba
Average Salary: $63,949
Kyyba is a technology company known for its innovative solutions. They focus on employee growth and satisfaction.
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MercyOne
Average Salary: $60,229
MercyOne is a health care provider. They offer competitive salaries and a supportive work environment.
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Care Initiatives
Average Salary: $58,325
Care Initiatives is a non-profit organization providing health care services. They value their employees and offer good compensation.
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State of Iowa
Average Salary: $55,185
The State of Iowa offers various job opportunities in different fields. They provide a stable career with benefits.
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Tyson Foods Incorporated
Average Salary: $54,610
Tyson Foods Incorporated is a leading food company. They offer many jobs with good salaries and benefits.
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A-Line E.D.S. Inc.
Average Salary: $52,193
A-Line E.D.S. Inc. provides staffing solutions. They offer competitive pay and various job opportunities.
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HAWKEYE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Average Salary: $49,399
HAWKEYE COMMUNITY COLLEGE is a higher education institution. They offer teaching and administrative jobs with good salaries.
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Waterloo Community School District
Average Salary: $48,729
Waterloo Community School District provides education services. They offer jobs in teaching and administrative roles with competitive pay.
How does the cost of living in Waterloo, IA compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Waterloo, IA, offers a blend of affordability and accessibility when compared to the nationwide average. Housing in Waterloo stands at 80 on the cost of living index, indicating that residents can find more affordable housing options. This is 20% below the national average of 100, making it a significant factor for those looking to minimize their living expenses. Groceries cost 95 in Waterloo, slightly higher than the average but still favorable, as it represents only 5% more. This minor increase suggests that everyday food purchases remain reasonably priced.
Utilities and transportation in Waterloo also reflect lower costs compared to the national average. The utilities index sits at 90, which means utility bills are 10% cheaper than the average. Similarly, transportation costs at 85 are 15% below the national average. This combination benefits those commuting daily or managing household energy costs. Healthcare in Waterloo matches the national average at 100, ensuring that medical expenses are on par with what one might find elsewhere. Additionally, miscellaneous costs in Waterloo, at 88, are 12% below the average, showing that other everyday expenses remain within a comfortable range. Overall, Waterloo, IA, provides a cost-effective living environment with notable savings in key areas.



