What is the average salary in Watertown, SD?
Watertown, South Dakota, offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary in Watertown is $51,162. This figure reflects the diverse industries present in the area. Here are some salary ranges for different job roles:
- Entry-level positions can expect to earn around $26,000 to $35,182 annually.
- Mid-level roles range from $35,182 to $53,545 per year.
- Senior positions and specialized jobs offer salaries from $53,545 to over $100,000 annually.
The salary distribution in Watertown shows a range of opportunities for job seekers with different levels of experience and expertise. This variety makes Watertown an attractive location for those seeking professional growth and a stable income.
What are the best paying jobs in Watertown, SD?

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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $82,779
This role involves providing essential care to patients in healthcare facilities. Nurses work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care homes. Key employers include Watertown Medical Clinic and Avera McKennan Hospital.
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Diesel Technician
Average Salary: $69,794
This job requires diagnosing and fixing issues in diesel engines. Technicians work for local automotive shops and service centers. Major employers include Watertown Auto and Precision Diesel.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $58,194
LPNs provide basic medical care and support to patients in various healthcare settings. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Local employers include Watertown Medical Clinic and Keystone Behavioral Center.
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Delivery Driver
Average Salary: $44,840
Delivery drivers transport goods to customers. They work for companies like local grocery stores and package delivery services. Employers include Hy-Vee and United Parcel Service.
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Intern
Average Salary: $40,715
Interns assist in various roles to gain experience. They work in offices for businesses and organizations. Key employers include local banks and regional companies.
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Material Handler
Average Salary: $38,416
This role involves moving materials around a warehouse or factory. Handlers use machinery to load, unload, and stock items. Major employers include manufacturing companies and logistics firms.
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Resident Assistant
Average Salary: $35,594
Resident assistants support residents in care facilities. They provide daily living assistance and coordinate activities. Employers include senior living communities and assisted living homes.
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Cook
Average Salary: $34,512
Cooks prepare meals in restaurants, schools, and hospitals. They follow recipes and ensure food quality. Key employers include local schools and dining services.
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Cashier
Average Salary: $33,224
Cashiers handle transactions at retail stores and grocery stores. They operate cash registers and provide customer service. Local employers include Hy-Vee and other grocery chains.
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Housekeeper
Average Salary: $28,185
Housekeepers clean and maintain rooms in hotels and residential facilities. They ensure a clean and welcoming environment. Key employers include local hotels and residential care facilities.
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What are the best paying jobs in Watertown, SD without a degree?

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Line Cook
Average Salary: $33,517
Line cooks prepare ingredients and cook food in fast-paced settings. They work in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. They follow recipes and kitchen standards. This role is often a stepping stone to higher positions in the food industry.
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Barista
Average Salary: $30,381
Baristas work in cafes and coffee shops. They prepare coffee and other drinks. They also greet customers and manage the cash register. Working in local coffee shops allows for customer interaction and a cozy work environment.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $29,465
Housekeeping staff clean and maintain hotel rooms and public areas. They ensure a comfortable environment for guests. This job is ideal for those who enjoy cleanliness and take pride in maintaining a tidy space. Local hotels and motels often provide training.
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Server
Average Salary: $28,455
Servers work in restaurants, cafes, and bars. They take orders and serve food and drinks. They also provide recommendations to customers. This role offers a chance to interact with people and learn about customer service in a dining setting.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Watertown, SD?

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Prairie Lakes Healthcare System
Average Salary: $66,017
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System offers a range of healthcare services. They focus on providing quality patient care. They have a variety of positions, from nursing to administrative roles.
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Terex Corporation
Average Salary: $60,719
Terex Corporation specializes in manufacturing construction and mining equipment. They value innovation and employee growth. Opportunities exist in engineering, manufacturing, and sales.
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Sanford Health
Average Salary: $59,097
Sanford Health is a large healthcare provider. They offer many job opportunities in various fields. They focus on delivering high-quality care and have a commitment to employee wellness.
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Avantara
Average Salary: $48,636
Avantara provides software solutions for healthcare. They are a growing company with opportunities in IT and healthcare management. They focus on innovation and quality service.
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Good Samaritan
Average Salary: $41,605
Good Samaritan offers healthcare services and social programs. They focus on community care and employee well-being. They have roles in healthcare, administration, and social services.
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Dakota Bodies
Average Salary: $41,328
Dakota Bodies is a vehicle body shop. They specialize in custom and repair services. Opportunities exist in bodywork, painting, and sales.
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Domino's
Average Salary: $35,592
Domino's is a well-known pizza chain. They offer positions in store management, delivery, and kitchen roles. They focus on customer satisfaction and team support.
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Menards
Average Salary: $34,088
Menards is a home improvement store. They offer many roles in retail, landscaping, and management. They focus on customer service and employee development.
How does the cost of living in Watertown, SD compare to the national average?

Watertown, South Dakota, presents a cost of living that is notably lower than the nationwide average, which is set at 100 for comparison. Specifically, the housing index in Watertown stands at 86, indicating that housing costs are about 14% less than the national average. This makes Watertown an attractive option for those looking to save on living expenses, particularly in housing.
When looking at other cost factors, Watertown continues to show favorable comparisons. Groceries are priced at 92, only 8% above the national average, which suggests that food costs are reasonably manageable. Utilities are slightly higher, at 95, showing a 5% increase. Transportation costs are also below average at 88, providing a savings of about 12%. Healthcare costs are slightly above average at 97, which is a 3% increase. Miscellaneous expenses, rounding out at 90, are just 10% above the national average. Together, these indices paint a picture of Watertown as a place where the cost of living is generally lower than the national standard, with savings particularly noticeable in housing and transportation.



