Average Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Salary in Fort Smith, AR-OK
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Fort Smith, AR-OK earn an average annual salary of $46,570. This figure is notably below the national average of $54,910, suggesting local economic factors or a different market dynamic influence compensation in this region. The specific pay rates are often dictated by the local demand for skilled technicians, the cost of doing business for repair shops, and the overall economic health of the Fort Smith metropolitan area.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $46,570 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 24.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $70,190.
- Outlook: The job market for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Fort Smith, AR-OK appears stable, with a total local workforce of 510 individuals in this role. The Location Quotient of 1.19 indicates a slightly higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average, suggesting a consistent, albeit not overwhelmingly high, demand for their services within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Fort Smith, AR-OK earns-15.2%below the national average.
$22.4
$896
$3,881
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Fort Smith is not provided, it's reasonable to assume that salaries for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth is typically driven by increasing vehicle complexity, the need for specialized diagnostic tools, and a steady demand for maintenance and repair services across the automotive sector.
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Salary Distribution in Fort Smith, AR-OK
Salary progression for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Fort Smith, AR-OK, like elsewhere, is strongly tied to experience and specialization. Entry-level positions typically command lower salaries, while seasoned technicians with expertise in diagnostics, specific vehicle makes, or advanced repair techniques can significantly increase their earning potential. The percentile gaps in salary data reflect this career ladder, with senior mechanics earning substantially more than their less experienced counterparts.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $29,280 | $14.1 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $34,928 | $16.8 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $40,930 | $19.7 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $58,213 | $28 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $70,190 | $33.7 |
Detailed Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$46,570
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$46,570
Adjusted for COL (100)
With an average annual salary of $46,570 and a Cost of Living Index of 100 (matching the national average), the nominal income in Fort Smith, AR-OK for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics holds its purchasing power relative to the rest of the country. This means that while the salary is lower than the national average, the cost of essential goods and services is comparable, offering a balanced financial outlook for residents.
Job Market Context
510
Total Jobs
5.328
Per 1K Jobs
1.19
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.19, Fort Smith, AR-OK has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics roles compared to the national norm.
The Location Quotient of 1.19 for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Fort Smith, AR-OK signifies a job market where this profession is slightly more prevalent than the national average. This suggests a healthy demand and a stable presence of these roles, indicating that while the market isn't saturated, there are ample opportunities for skilled technicians to find employment and establish a career.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Salary | $51,310↑ 10% | 51 mi |
| Hot Springs, AR Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Salary | $47,290↑ 2% | 96 mi |
Comparing salaries near Fort Smith, AR-OK
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics make in Fort Smith, AR-OK?
The median annual salary for a Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Fort Smith, AR-OK is $46,570. This typically ranges from $29,280 for entry-level positions to $70,190 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Fort Smith, AR-OK is 15.2% lower than the national median of $54,910.
Is Fort Smith, AR-OK a lucrative place for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanicss?
No, but it offers stable employment.While the average salary of $46,570 is below the national average, the cost of living is also at the national average, meaning purchasing power is maintained. The location quotient suggests a steady demand for these professionals.
Is Fort Smith, AR-OK a good place to live for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics?
The Cost of Living Index in Fort Smith, AR-OK is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Fort Smith, AR-OK?
Some top paying nearby cities include Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR ($51,310) and Hot Springs, AR.
How does experience affect an Automotive Service Technician's salary in Fort Smith?
Experience is a key driver of salary increases. Entry-level technicians will earn less, while those with several years of experience, specialized certifications, or expertise in complex diagnostics and repairs can command significantly higher wages.
What is the job outlook for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Fort Smith?
The outlook appears stable with a local workforce of 510 and a location quotient slightly above the national average, indicating consistent demand for skilled technicians in the region.
Does the cost of living in Fort Smith impact the value of the salary?
No, the cost of living in Fort Smith is at the national average (100). This means the $46,570 salary has comparable purchasing power to what it would have in a national average cost-of-living area.
How does Fort Smith's concentration of auto mechanics compare nationally?
Fort Smith has a slightly higher concentration of Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, with a Location Quotient of 1.19, meaning the profession is 19% more common there than the national average.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 510 employees in the Fort Smith, AR-OK area with a job density of 5.328 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 Fort Smith, AR-OK