Average Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Salary in Ames, IA
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Ames, IA, earn an average annual salary of $55,130. This figure slightly surpasses the national average of $54,910, indicating a stable demand for skilled professionals in the area. Local economic factors and the specific needs of the Ames community contribute to this competitive compensation.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $55,130 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 3.7% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $82,000.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 280 Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, Ames, IA, demonstrates a healthy concentration of these roles, as evidenced by a Location Quotient of 1.11. This suggests that the demand for these skilled trades is slightly higher than the national average, pointing towards a robust job market with consistent opportunities for qualified individuals.
Salary Overview
The average Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Ames, IA earns+0.4%above the national average.
$26.5
$1,060
$4,594
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that the average salary for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Ames, IA, has experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth is likely driven by increasing vehicle complexity, a need for specialized skills, and general inflation, ensuring that compensation keeps pace with the evolving industry.
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Salary Distribution in Ames, IA
Salary progression for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Ames, IA, typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile, while seasoned professionals with specialized certifications and extensive experience can command salaries in the higher percentiles. The gap between entry-level and senior roles signifies clear career advancement opportunities and increased earning potential within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $36,410 | $17.5 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $41,348 | $19.9 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $52,460 | $25.2 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $68,913 | $33.1 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $82,000 | $39.4 |
Detailed Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$55,130
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$55,130
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $55,130 in Ames, IA, is particularly attractive given the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is precisely at the national average. This means that the purchasing power of an Automotive Service Technician's salary in Ames is equivalent to the national average, allowing for a comfortable standard of living without the premium often associated with higher-paying, high-cost-of-living areas.
Job Market Context
280
Total Jobs
4.974
Per 1K Jobs
1.11
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.11, Ames, IA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.11 for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Ames, IA, indicates a slightly higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average. This suggests a market where demand is robust, and employers may actively seek out skilled technicians. While not exceptionally high, this quotient points to a competitive yet accessible job market for professionals in this trade.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
Comparing salaries near Ames, IA
Hiring Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanicss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics make in Ames, IA?
The median annual salary for a Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Ames, IA is $55,130. This typically ranges from $36,410 for entry-level positions to $82,000 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Ames, IA is 0.4% higher than the national median of $54,910.
Is Ames, IA a lucrative place for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics?
Yes, Ames, IA offers a slightly above-average compensation for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics.The average salary of $55,130 is marginally higher than the national average, and the cost of living is on par with the national average, making it a financially sound location.
Is Ames, IA a good place to live for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics?
The Cost of Living Index in Ames, IA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Ames, IA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area ($50,030) and Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area.
What is the average salary for an Automotive Service Technician in Ames, IA?
The average annual salary for an Automotive Service Technician and Mechanic in Ames, IA, is $55,130.
How does the Ames, IA salary compare to the national average?
The average salary in Ames, IA ($55,130) is slightly higher than the national average ($54,910).
What does the Location Quotient of 1.11 mean for this role in Ames, IA?
A Location Quotient of 1.11 signifies that Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics are slightly more concentrated in Ames, IA, than the national average, suggesting a healthy demand for these professionals.
How does the cost of living in Ames, IA affect the salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, Ames, IA, matches the national average. This means the $55,130 salary offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average, making it a stable financial environment.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 280 employees in the Ames, IA area with a job density of 4.974 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Ames, IA