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Average Architecture and Engineering Occupations Salary in Tuscaloosa, AL

In Tuscaloosa, AL, professionals in Architecture and Engineering Occupations can expect an average annual salary of $89,720. This figure is notably below the national average of $103,510, suggesting that local market dynamics, such as industry demand and the cost of doing business, play a significant role in compensation within this sector.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $89,720 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 13.7% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $127,820.
  • Outlook: The Architecture and Engineering Occupations sector in Tuscaloosa, AL, comprises a workforce of 1,680 individuals. With a Location Quotient of 0.93, the concentration of these roles is slightly below the national average, indicating a stable but not exceptionally high demand relative to the overall employment landscape. The presence of 15.514 jobs per 1,000 workers suggests a consistent need for these specialized skills within the local economy.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$89,720

The average Architecture and Engineering Occupations in Tuscaloosa, AL earns-13.3%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$43.1

Weekly

$1,725

Monthly

$7,477

Architecture and Engineering Occupations Salary Distribution in Tuscaloosa, AL

Salary progression within Architecture and Engineering Occupations in Tuscaloosa, AL, typically scales significantly with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower percentiles, while senior engineers and architects, with extensive project management and design experience, command salaries in the higher percentiles. These percentile gaps are a clear indicator of career advancement and the increasing value placed on seasoned professionals.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Junior / AssociateEntry level. Focus on learning core skills & codebase.10% (Entry)$46,270$22.2
Engineer IProficient contributor. Handles tasks independently.25% (Junior)$67,290$32.4
Senior EngineerSystem design, complex problem solving, mentoring.50% (Median)$86,040$41.4
Lead / StaffTechnical strategy, architecture, cross-team impact.75% (Senior)$112,150$53.9
Principal / ArchitectIndustry expert. Driving technical vision & innovation.90% (Expert)$127,820$61.5

Detailed Architecture and Engineering Occupations Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$89,720

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$89,720

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $89,720 in Tuscaloosa, AL, aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the nominal salary offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average, providing a stable financial footing for professionals considering a move to or within the area.

Job Market Context

1,680

Total Jobs

15.514

Per 1K Jobs

0.93

Location Quotient

Below Average

Tuscaloosa, AL has 0.93x the national average concentration of Architecture and Engineering Occupations jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.

With a Location Quotient of 0.93, the Architecture and Engineering Occupations market in Tuscaloosa, AL, is neither over-saturated nor exceptionally scarce. This suggests a balanced job market where opportunities exist, but competition may be present, especially for specialized roles. Employers are likely seeking qualified candidates, but the demand isn't so high as to create a significant talent shortage.

Nearby Job Markets

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Architecture and Engineering Occupations make in Tuscaloosa, AL?

The median annual salary for a Architecture and Engineering Occupations in Tuscaloosa, AL is $89,720. This typically ranges from $46,270 for entry-level positions to $127,820 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Tuscaloosa, AL is 13.3% lower than the national median of $103,510.

Is Tuscaloosa, AL a lucrative place for Architecture and Engineering Occupationss?

No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.While the average salary of $89,720 is substantial, it falls below the national average of $103,510. However, the cost of living being at the national average means the salary's purchasing power is equivalent nationally.

Is Tuscaloosa, AL a good place to live for Architecture and Engineering Occupations?

The Cost of Living Index in Tuscaloosa, AL is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

Where are the highest paying cities near Tuscaloosa, AL?

Some top paying nearby cities include Birmingham, AL ($96,740) and Northeast Alabama nonmetropolitan area.

How does Tuscaloosa's cost of living compare to the national average for engineers?

Tuscaloosa's cost of living is exactly at the national average (100), meaning your $89,720 salary has the same purchasing power as the national average salary of $103,510 would have elsewhere.

Is there high demand for architects and engineers in Tuscaloosa?

The demand is moderate, indicated by a Location Quotient of 0.93, which is slightly below the national average concentration. There are 15.514 jobs per 1,000 workers in this field locally.

What is the total number of architecture and engineering professionals in Tuscaloosa?

There are approximately 1,680 individuals employed in Architecture and Engineering Occupations in Tuscaloosa, AL.

How does experience affect salary for engineers in Tuscaloosa?

Experience significantly impacts earnings, with entry-level positions earning less and senior roles commanding higher salaries, reflecting increased responsibility and expertise.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,680 employees in the Tuscaloosa, AL area with a job density of 15.514 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.