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Average Community and Social Service Occupations Salary in Auburn-Opelika, AL

In Auburn-Opelika, AL, professionals in Community and Social Service Occupations earn an average annual salary of $55,410. This figure is slightly below the national average of $59,070, a difference often influenced by regional economic factors and the specific demand within the local job market. Understanding these localized pay scales is crucial for career planning and financial management in the area.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $55,410 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 14.6% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $79,810.
  • Outlook: The Community and Social Service Occupations sector in Auburn-Opelika, AL, supports a local workforce of 840 individuals. With a Location Quotient of 0.7, the concentration of these roles is slightly below the national average, suggesting a stable but not exceptionally concentrated job market. The rate of 11.675 jobs per 1,000 workers indicates a consistent presence of these vital services within the community's employment landscape.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$55,410

The average Community and Social Service Occupations in Auburn-Opelika, AL earns-6.2%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$26.6

Weekly

$1,066

Monthly

$4,618

Community and Social Service Occupations Salary Distribution in Auburn-Opelika, AL

Career progression within Community and Social Service Occupations typically leads to significant salary increases. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while experienced professionals and those in senior or specialized roles can command salaries considerably higher than the average. The percentile gaps in salary distribution clearly signify the financial rewards associated with gaining experience and advancing within this field.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ProbationaryInitial licensure. Mentored by senior faculty.10% (Entry)$31,910$15.3
Tenured / ProProfessional status. Curriculum development.25% (Junior)$41,558$20
Senior EducatorDepartment chair. Mentors student teachers.50% (Median)$53,870$25.9
Lead SpecialistInstructional coach, reading specialist, or VP.75% (Senior)$69,263$33.3
AdministratorPrincipal, District Admin, or Consultant.90% (Expert)$79,810$38.4

Detailed Community and Social Service Occupations Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$55,410

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$55,410

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $55,410 in Auburn-Opelika, AL, aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that, on average, the purchasing power of a salary in this occupation within Auburn-Opelika is comparable to the national average. Residents can expect their earnings to cover typical expenses without significant strain relative to the rest of the country.

Job Market Context

840

Total Jobs

11.675

Per 1K Jobs

0.7

Location Quotient

Below Average

Auburn-Opelika, AL has 0.70x the national average concentration of Community and Social Service 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 0.7, the Community and Social Service Occupations market in Auburn-Opelika, AL, is less concentrated than the national average. This suggests that while these roles are present and necessary, the job market may not be saturated, potentially offering opportunities for skilled individuals. It indicates a moderate level of competition, where demand is steady but not overwhelmingly high compared to national benchmarks.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Community and Social Service Occupationss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Community and Social Service Occupations make in Auburn-Opelika, AL?

The median annual salary for a Community and Social Service Occupations in Auburn-Opelika, AL is $55,410. This typically ranges from $31,910 for entry-level positions to $79,810 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Auburn-Opelika, AL is 6.2% lower than the national median of $59,070.

Is Auburn-Opelika, AL a lucrative place for Community and Social Service Occupationss?

No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $55,410 is below the national average of $59,070, indicating a slightly less competitive pay scale. However, the cost of living being at the national average means the salary's purchasing power is standard.

Is Auburn-Opelika, AL a good place to live for Community and Social Service Occupations?

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

Where are the highest paying cities near Auburn-Opelika, AL?

Some top paying nearby cities include Columbus, GA-AL ($54,610) and Montgomery, AL.

How does the local job market compare to the national average for Community and Social Service Occupations?

The local market in Auburn-Opelika, AL, has a Location Quotient of 0.7, meaning it has 70% of the national average concentration of these jobs. This suggests a less dense, potentially less competitive job market compared to national trends.

What is the significance of the Jobs per 1,000 Workers metric?

The 11.675 jobs per 1,000 workers indicates the prevalence of Community and Social Service Occupations roles within the local workforce. This metric helps contextualize the employment opportunities available relative to the overall labor pool.

Does experience significantly impact salary in this field in Auburn-Opelika, AL?

Yes, as in most fields, experience is a key driver of salary. Entry-level positions will likely offer lower pay, while senior roles and specialized positions command higher compensation, reflecting increased expertise and responsibility.

How does the cost of living affect the perceived value of the salary?

With a Cost of Living Index of 100, the local cost of living is exactly average. Therefore, the $55,410 salary has a purchasing power that is on par with the national average, making it neither exceptionally high nor low in real terms.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 840 employees in the Auburn-Opelika, AL area with a job density of 11.675 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.