Salaries in Watertown, SD

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
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Salary

What is the average salary in Watertown, SD?

The average salary in Watertown, SD is $51,584 per year.

Watertown, SD offers a range of salary opportunities across different industries. The average salary in the city is around $51,584. This figure provides a good starting point for job seekers to understand the earning potential in the area. Salaries can vary based on the industry and the specific role.


Some of the highest-paying industries in Watertown include healthcare, finance, and engineering. For example, healthcare professionals can earn between $70,836 and $150,000 annually. Finance professionals may see salaries ranging from $82,145 to $150,000. Engineers can earn between $59,527 and $150,000. These figures highlight the potential for higher earnings in certain sectors, making Watertown an attractive place for skilled professionals.

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What are the best paying jobs in Watertown, SD?

Watertown, SD, offers a range of high-paying jobs for skilled professionals. Leading the list is the Ultrasound Technologist, with an average salary of $80,461. Registered Nurses also earn a strong income, averaging $75,464 annually. These positions require specialized skills and training, making them attractive to those seeking a good salary. Additionally, Diesel Technicians and CDL Drivers earn competitive wages, with annual salaries around $69,726 and $69,424, respectively. These roles demand technical expertise and often involve working with heavy machinery. Job seekers in Watertown can find rewarding opportunities in these fields, with the potential for a stable and lucrative career.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Watertown, SD, highlighting Ultrasound Technologist with the highest at $80,461 and General Laborer with the lowest at $36,551.
  1. Ultrasound Technologist
    Average Salary: $80,461
    This role involves using imaging equipment to help doctors diagnose and treat patients. Local clinics and hospitals offer these positions. The work is rewarding, with a focus on patient care.
    Find Ultrasound Technologist jobs in Watertown, SD


  2. Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $75,464
    RNs provide essential care to patients in hospitals and clinics. They work closely with doctors and other healthcare professionals. This role is vital for patient recovery and well-being.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Watertown, SD


  3. Diesel Technician
    Average Salary: $69,726
    These professionals repair and maintain diesel engines. They work in auto repair shops and service centers. The job requires technical skills and attention to detail.
    Find Diesel Technician jobs in Watertown, SD


  4. CDL Driver
    Average Salary: $69,424
    CDL drivers transport goods across the state. They need to follow safety regulations and manage long hours on the road. This role is crucial for the supply chain.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Watertown, SD


  5. Insurance Agent
    Average Salary: $68,987
    Insurance agents help clients find the right coverage. They work with various companies and need strong communication skills. This job offers the chance to build lasting relationships.
    Find Insurance Agent jobs in Watertown, SD


  6. Licensed Practical Nurse
    Average Salary: $55,021
    LPNs provide basic patient care under the supervision of RNs and doctors. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. This role is important for patient comfort and health.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Watertown, SD


  7. General Manager
    Average Salary: $50,408
    General managers oversee the daily operations of businesses. They need strong leadership and organizational skills. This role offers the chance to shape the success of a company.
    Find General Manager jobs in Watertown, SD


  8. Delivery Driver
    Average Salary: $44,780
    Delivery drivers transport packages and goods to customers. They need to be punctual and efficient. This role is essential for e-commerce and local businesses.
    Find Delivery Driver jobs in Watertown, SD


  9. Maintenance Technician
    Average Salary: $43,368
    Maintenance technicians repair and maintain equipment. They work in various industries and need technical skills. This job ensures smooth operations and safety.
    Find Maintenance Technician jobs in Watertown, SD


  10. General Laborer
    Average Salary: $36,551
    General laborers perform a variety of tasks. They work in construction, manufacturing, and other industries. This role offers the chance to gain experience and skills.
    Find General Laborer jobs in Watertown, SD

What are the best paying jobs in Watertown, SD without a degree?

Watertown, SD, offers several high-paying jobs that don't require a degree. Among these, concrete finishers earn the most, with an average salary of $45,588. Floor techs and line cooks also make good money, with salaries around $31,700 and $31,600, respectively. Other well-paying jobs in Watertown include servers, dishwashers, and housekeeping staff. These roles offer competitive salaries, ranging from $30,000 to $31,000. These jobs provide a solid income and valuable experience in various industries.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Watertown, SD without a degree, highlighting Concrete Finisher with the highest at $45,588 and To Go Specialist with the lowest at $21,600.
  1. Concrete Finisher
    Average Salary: $45,588
    This role involves smoothing and finishing concrete surfaces. Workers use tools to shape and level the concrete. Companies in Watertown often need skilled finishers for construction projects.
    Find Concrete Finisher jobs in Watertown, SD


  2. Floor Tech
    Average Salary: $31,714
    Floor technicians install and maintain flooring materials. They work on both residential and commercial projects. Local businesses and contractors often seek skilled floor techs for their projects.
    Find Floor Tech jobs in Watertown, SD


  3. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $31,641
    Line cooks prepare food in fast-paced kitchen environments. They work quickly to meet orders. Restaurants and cafes in Watertown rely on line cooks to keep the kitchen running smoothly.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Watertown, SD


  4. Server
    Average Salary: $30,320
    Servers take orders and serve food and drinks to customers. They ensure a pleasant dining experience. Many local eateries and cafes need servers to handle customer service and orders.
    Find Server jobs in Watertown, SD


  5. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $30,023
    Dishwasher duties include cleaning dishes and kitchen equipment. They work in a fast-paced environment. Restaurants and cafes in Watertown need reliable dishwashers to keep operations running smoothly.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Watertown, SD


  6. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $29,518
    Housekeeping staff clean and maintain rooms in hotels and motels. They ensure a comfortable environment for guests. Local accommodations often seek housekeepers to maintain cleanliness and order.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Watertown, SD


  7. Kitchen Team Member
    Average Salary: $29,318
    Kitchen team members assist in food preparation and cooking. They work in a team to ensure timely service. Restaurants and cafes in Watertown need team members to support kitchen operations.
    Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Watertown, SD


  8. Laundry Aide
    Average Salary: $28,906
    Laundry aides handle washing, drying, and folding clothes. They work in hotels and motels. Local accommodations often need aides to keep laundry services running smoothly.
    Find Laundry Aide jobs in Watertown, SD


  9. To Go Specialist
    Average Salary: $21,600
    To Go specialists prepare and package food for customers. They ensure orders are accurate and ready for pickup. Restaurants and cafes in Watertown rely on specialists to handle takeout orders efficiently.
    Find To Go Specialist jobs in Watertown, SD

Which companies offer the top salaries in Watertown, SD?

Job seekers in Watertown, SD, can find competitive salaries at several top companies. Prairie Lakes Healthcare System leads with an average salary of $63,259. Sanford Health follows closely with an average of $58,949. These figures highlight the potential for attractive compensation in the region. Other notable employers include Avantara, Terex Corporation, and Persona Signs, all offering salaries that exceed $48,000. SpecSys, Watertown Ford Chrysler, and ESCO Manufacturing also provide competitive pay, with averages ranging from $48,345 to $44,541. These companies present good opportunities for those seeking a balance of job satisfaction and financial reward.
Graph displaying company salaries in Watertown, SD, highlighting Prairie Lakes Healthcare System with the highest at $63,259 and Dakota Bodies Inc with the lowest at $41,131.
  1. Prairie Lakes Healthcare System
    Average Salary: $63,259
    Prairie Lakes Healthcare System offers a range of medical services. It is a leading healthcare provider in the region, known for its quality care and supportive work environment.


  2. Sanford Health
    Average Salary: $58,949
    Sanford Health is a large healthcare provider. It offers many job opportunities and is recognized for its commitment to patient care and employee well-being.


  3. Avantara
    Average Salary: $53,494
    Avantara provides healthcare services. It is known for its strong community presence and dedication to patient care.


  4. Terex Corporation
    Average Salary: $52,842
    Terex Corporation manufactures construction and mining equipment. It is a global leader in its industry and offers competitive salaries.


  5. Persona Signs
    Average Salary: $49,241
    Persona Signs specializes in custom signage. It is a growing company that values creativity and quality in its work.


  6. SpecSys
    Average Salary: $48,938
    SpecSys provides software solutions. It is known for its innovative products and supportive work culture.


  7. Watertown Ford Chrysler
    Average Salary: $48,345
    Watertown Ford Chrysler is an automotive dealership. It offers a variety of job opportunities in sales and service.


  8. ESCO Manufacturing
    Average Salary: $44,541
    ESCO Manufacturing produces metal products. It is a well-established company with a focus on quality and reliability.


  9. B & G Industries Inc
    Average Salary: $42,290
    B & G Industries Inc provides industrial services. It is known for its commitment to safety and customer satisfaction.


  10. Dakota Bodies Inc
    Average Salary: $41,131
    Dakota Bodies Inc manufactures truck bodies. It is a reputable company with a strong presence in the industry.

How does the cost of living in Watertown, SD compare to the national average?

Watertown, SD, offers a cost of living that is generally lower than the nationwide average. The cost of living index for Watertown stands at 91, which is 9% below the national average of 100. This makes Watertown an attractive option for those looking to reduce their living expenses while maintaining a reasonable quality of life. Specifically, housing costs in Watertown are 17% below the national average, making it one of the most affordable categories. Groceries and utilities also remain relatively close to the national average, with indices of 97 and 90, respectively. This balanced approach makes Watertown a practical choice for budget-conscious individuals.
Cost of living comparison graph for Watertown, SD vs. Nationwide: housing 17% lower, groceries 3% lower, utilities 10% lower, transportation 12% lower, healthcare 1% lower, miscellaneous 8% lower.

Watertown, South Dakota, offers a cost of living that is notably lower than the nationwide average. The overall cost of living index for Watertown is 91, which is 9% below the national average of 100. This lower cost of living makes Watertown an attractive option for those looking to manage their expenses more effectively. Housing, in particular, stands out with an index of 83, which is 17% below the national average. This lower housing cost can significantly reduce living expenses for residents.


Additionally, Watertown's other cost categories also show a favorable comparison to the national average. Groceries have an index of 97, which is 3% below the national average. Utilities are at 90, which is 10% lower. Transportation costs are at 88, which is 12% lower. Healthcare costs are slightly above the national average at 99, but still only 1% higher. Miscellaneous expenses are at 92, which is 8% lower. These figures indicate that Watertown provides a balanced and often more affordable living environment compared to the national average.

There are 418 job openings in Watertown, SD, today!

Take a deeper dive into the job market in Watertown, SD

Discover what it's like to work in Watertown, SD. Learn if you need a car, explore popular employers, the job market, and the best neighborhoods to live in.
City
Overview
Watertown, SD
418 Job Openings