What is the average salary in Waterloo, IA?
Salaries in Waterloo, IA, offer a range of opportunities for job seekers. The average yearly salary stands at $54,168, providing a good benchmark for what workers can expect to earn. This figure represents the midpoint of the earnings spectrum, suggesting a balanced distribution of income levels across the region.
Breakdown of salaries shows a diverse employment landscape. The lower end of the scale includes positions earning around $24,000 per year, while the higher end sees salaries reaching up to $148,720 annually. This range allows professionals to find roles that match their experience and skills, offering various pathways for career growth and financial stability.
What are the best paying jobs in Waterloo, IA?

-
Radiologic Technologist
Average Salary: $126,974
These professionals use medical equipment to take images of patients' bodies. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They need to be detail-oriented and work well with people.
Find Radiologic Technologist jobs in Waterloo, IA
-
Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $115,865
Traveling nurses work in various locations, often to fill short-term needs. They provide care in hospitals, clinics, and other settings. This role demands flexibility and strong clinical skills.
Find Traveling Nurse jobs in Waterloo, IA
-
Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $89,397
These professionals sell goods or services directly to customers. They often work for companies in the manufacturing and tech sectors. They need to be good communicators and persuasive in their approach.
Find Outside Sales Representative jobs in Waterloo, IA
-
Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $85,170
Registered nurses care for patients and help with their medical needs. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. They need to be compassionate and excellent at problem-solving.
Find Registered Nurse jobs in Waterloo, IA
-
CDL Driver
Average Salary: $82,482
CDL drivers operate large vehicles to transport goods. They work for logistics and transportation companies. They need to be safe drivers and able to handle long hours on the road.
Find CDL Driver jobs in Waterloo, IA
-
Manufacturing Engineer
Average Salary: $77,452
Manufacturing engineers design and improve production processes. They work in factories and manufacturing plants. They need to be knowledgeable in engineering and problem-solving.
Find Manufacturing Engineer jobs in Waterloo, IA
-
Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $70,384
LPNs provide basic medical care and support to patients. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. They need to be detail-oriented and able to work well under pressure.
Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Waterloo, IA
-
Production Supervisor
Average Salary: $68,850
Production supervisors oversee the manufacturing process. They work in factories and production plants. They need to be good leaders and skilled in production techniques.
Find Production Supervisor jobs in Waterloo, IA
-
General Manager
Average Salary: $59,596
General managers oversee the operations of a business. They work in various industries, including retail and hospitality. They need to be strong leaders and skilled in management.
Find General Manager jobs in Waterloo, IA
-
Construction Laborer
Average Salary: $55,282
Construction laborers help build structures. They work on construction sites for building contractors. They need to be physically fit and able to follow instructions.
Find Construction Laborer jobs in Waterloo, IA
What are the best paying jobs in Waterloo, IA without a degree?

-
Landscaper
Average Salary: $37,125
This role involves maintaining the beauty and health of outdoor areas. Workers may work for landscape companies, handling tasks like mowing, planting, and pruning. Landscaping offers a great mix of physical activity and being outdoors.
Find Landscaper jobs in Waterloo, IA
-
Server
Average Salary: $35,911
Servers work in restaurants and cafes, taking orders and serving food and drinks. They interact with customers and must provide friendly, efficient service. This job often provides opportunities for tips, boosting overall earnings.
Find Server jobs in Waterloo, IA
-
Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $34,623
Groundskeepers maintain the grounds of buildings and properties. They work for landscaping companies and property management firms, doing tasks like mowing, trimming, and cleaning. This position is ideal for those who enjoy working outdoors.
Find Groundskeeper jobs in Waterloo, IA
-
Line Cook
Average Salary: $32,478
Line cooks work in kitchens, preparing ingredients and cooking meals. They work in fast-paced environments like restaurants and cafes. This role requires speed and efficiency under pressure, with the chance to learn new cooking techniques.
Find Line Cook jobs in Waterloo, IA
-
Housekeeping
Average Salary: $32,131
Housekeeping staff maintain cleanliness in hotels and other lodging facilities. They clean rooms, replace linens, and ensure guest satisfaction. This job provides a steady schedule and the chance to interact with guests, creating a welcoming environment.
Find Housekeeping jobs in Waterloo, IA
-
Barista
Average Salary: $29,852
Baristas work in coffee shops, making and serving coffee and other beverages. They interact with customers and often learn about different coffee types and brewing methods. This role offers a welcoming atmosphere and the chance to connect with community members.
Find Barista jobs in Waterloo, IA
-
Dishwasher
Average Salary: $29,659
Dishwashers clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment in restaurants and cafes. They work in fast-paced environments and ensure everything is spotless. This job is ideal for those who enjoy routine tasks and working in a clean setting.
Find Dishwasher jobs in Waterloo, IA
Which companies offer the top salaries in Waterloo, IA?

-
Sterling St James LLC
Average Salary: $79,708
Sterling St James LLC is a renowned company in Waterloo, known for its competitive salary packages. They offer various opportunities in technology and management.
-
John Deere
Average Salary: $73,408
John Deere, a global leader in agricultural machinery, provides a solid salary. They focus on manufacturing and offer benefits that appeal to skilled workers.
-
MercyOne
Average Salary: $63,616
MercyOne is a healthcare giant offering a high average salary. They provide excellent healthcare services and benefits to their employees.
-
KYYBA Inc
Average Salary: $63,528
KYYBA Inc is a reputable company in Waterloo, known for its good salary. They specialize in providing IT solutions and professional services.
-
Care Initiatives
Average Salary: $59,224
Care Initiatives offers a good average salary. They are involved in providing home care and have a strong focus on employee well-being.
-
Tyson Foods
Average Salary: $55,167
Tyson Foods, a leading poultry company, provides a competitive salary. They offer diverse opportunities in food production and management.
-
Ferguson
Average Salary: $51,114
Ferguson is a major distributor of plumbing and HVAC products. They offer a respectable salary and focus on industrial solutions.
-
Hawkeye Community College
Average Salary: $50,356
Hawkeye Community College provides a fair salary for educators and staff. They offer education services and are a cornerstone of the community.
-
Walgreens
Average Salary: $49,547
Walgreens, a well-known pharmacy chain, offers a solid average salary. They provide various roles in retail and healthcare services.
-
Elevate CCBHC
Average Salary: $48,904
Elevate CCBHC is dedicated to providing mental health and substance abuse services. They offer a good salary and focus on community health.
How does the cost of living in Waterloo, IA compare to the national average?

Waterloo, IA presents a unique cost of living scenario for job seekers. Compared to the nationwide average, which is indexed at 100, Waterloo's cost of living index stands at a generally favorable 90. This indicates that, overall, the expenses in Waterloo are about 10% lower than the national average. This lower cost of living can be particularly advantageous for individuals looking to minimize their expenses while maintaining a reasonable quality of life.
When breaking down the categories, Waterloo shows particular strength in housing, which is indexed at 85. This suggests that housing costs in Waterloo are about 15% lower than the national average. Similarly, miscellaneous expenses, indexed at 88, reflect an approximately 12% reduction from the national average. These savings in housing and other small expenses can significantly ease the financial burden on residents. However, it's worth noting that while utilities are slightly below the average at 90 and transportation costs are close to the national average at 92, healthcare costs are slightly higher, coming in at 98. Despite this, the overall index remains below the national average, providing a balanced outlook on the cost of living in Waterloo, IA.



