Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in the Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $49,830. This figure is notably below the national average of $54,910, reflecting the unique economic landscape and demand dynamics of nonmetropolitan regions. Factors such as local industry concentration and the overall cost of doing business in rural areas often influence compensation levels for skilled trades.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $49,830 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 12.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $69,510.
- Outlook: The job market for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Northwest Iowa appears stable, with a total local workforce of 860 individuals. The location quotient of 1.31 suggests a slightly higher concentration of these roles compared to the national average, indicating a consistent, albeit not overwhelmingly robust, demand for these essential services within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area earns-9.3%below the national average.
$24
$958
$4,153
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this precise region is not provided, it is 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.
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Salary Distribution in Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area
Career progression for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics typically involves a significant salary increase from entry-level to senior positions. While specific percentile data isn't available, the gap between starting wages and the average salary of $49,830 signifies the value placed on experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills. Senior technicians often command higher pay due to their diagnostic expertise and ability to handle complex repairs.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $31,770 | $15.3 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $37,373 | $18 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $47,070 | $22.6 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $62,288 | $29.9 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $69,510 | $33.4 |
Detailed Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$49,830
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$49,830
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $49,830 in Northwest Iowa aligns perfectly with the national average cost of living index of 100. This means that while the take-home pay is lower than the national average, the purchasing power of that salary is equivalent to the national standard, making the region's compensation relatively fair in terms of local economic conditions.
Job Market Context
860
Total Jobs
5.867
Per 1K Jobs
1.31
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.31, Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics roles compared to the national norm.
With a location quotient of 1.31, Northwest Iowa exhibits a concentration of Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics that is 31% higher than the national average. This indicates a moderately competitive market where the demand for these professionals is slightly more pronounced than in other areas, suggesting a good opportunity for skilled individuals to find employment.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Ames, IA Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Salary | $55,130↑ 11% | 21 mi |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Salary | $55,300↑ 11% | 37 mi |
| Waterloo-Cedar Falls, IA Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Salary | $51,020↑ 2% | 55 mi |
| Cedar Rapids, IA Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Salary | $54,120↑ 9% | 79 mi |
| Iowa City, IA Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics Salary | $55,130↑ 11% | 90 mi |
Comparing salaries near Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area
Hiring Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanicss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics make in Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area is $49,830. This typically ranges from $31,770 for entry-level positions to $69,510 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area is 9.3% lower than the national median of $54,910.
Is Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanicss?
No, but it offers good value.While the average salary of $49,830 is below the national average, the cost of living is also at the national average, meaning your earnings have equivalent purchasing power locally.
Is Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics?
The Cost of Living Index in Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Ames, IA ($55,130) and Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA.
How does the local workforce size affect job prospects?
A local workforce of 860 suggests a moderate-sized market. While not as large as metropolitan areas, it indicates a stable demand for automotive services within the region.
What does a location quotient of 1.31 mean for mechanics?
A location quotient of 1.31 signifies that Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics are more concentrated in Northwest Iowa than the national average, implying a slightly higher demand relative to the general workforce.
How does experience impact an Automotive Service Technician's salary in this area?
Experience is a key driver of salary increases. Entry-level technicians will earn less than the $49,830 average, while senior technicians with specialized skills and certifications can expect to earn significantly more.
Is the cost of living a significant factor for mechanics in Northwest Iowa?
The cost of living index being at the national average (100) means that the $49,830 salary offers purchasing power comparable to the national average, making it a balanced compensation package for the region.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 860 employees in the Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 5.867 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 Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area