Average Computer and Mathematical Occupations Salary in Ames, IA
In Ames, Iowa, professionals in Computer and Mathematical Occupations can expect an average annual salary of $95,470. This figure is notably below the national average of $119,220, suggesting that local market dynamics, such as industry concentration and demand, play a significant role in compensation within this sector in Ames.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $95,470 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 25.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $151,390.
- Outlook: Ames, IA supports a local workforce of 1,820 individuals within Computer and Mathematical Occupations. With a Location Quotient of 0.96, the concentration of these roles in Ames is nearly on par with the national average, indicating a stable, albeit not exceptionally concentrated, presence of these jobs. The density of 32.269 jobs per 1,000 workers further underscores a consistent demand for these specialized skills within the local economy.
Salary Overview
The average Computer and Mathematical Occupations in Ames, IA earns-19.9%below the national average.
$45.9
$1,836
$7,956
Computer and Mathematical Occupations Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that the Computer and Mathematical Occupations sector in Ames, IA has experienced growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth likely translates to a steady or increasing average salary, driven by technological advancements and the expanding need for skilled professionals in areas like software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity.
Computer and Mathematical Occupations Salary Distribution in Ames, IA
Salary progression within Computer and Mathematical Occupations in Ames, IA, like elsewhere, is significantly influenced by experience and specialization. Entry-level positions typically command lower salaries, while mid-level and senior roles, requiring extensive expertise and leadership, see substantial increases. The widening gap between the lower and upper salary percentiles reflects the clear career ladder and opportunities for advancement available to dedicated professionals in this field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior / AssociateEntry level. Focus on learning core skills & codebase. | 10% (Entry) | $56,920 | $27.4 |
| Engineer IProficient contributor. Handles tasks independently. | 25% (Junior) | $71,603 | $34.4 |
| Senior EngineerSystem design, complex problem solving, mentoring. | 50% (Median) | $89,080 | $42.8 |
| Lead / StaffTechnical strategy, architecture, cross-team impact. | 75% (Senior) | $119,338 | $57.4 |
| Principal / ArchitectIndustry expert. Driving technical vision & innovation. | 90% (Expert) | $151,390 | $72.8 |
Detailed Computer and Mathematical Occupations Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$95,470
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$95,470
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $95,470 in Ames, IA, aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the purchasing power of a salary in Ames is equivalent to the national average, making the nominal salary figure a realistic representation of living standards without significant adjustment for local expenses.
Job Market Context
1,820
Total Jobs
32.269
Per 1K Jobs
0.96
Location Quotient
Ames, IA has 0.96x the national average concentration of Computer and Mathematical Occupations jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
A Location Quotient of 0.96 for Computer and Mathematical Occupations in Ames, IA, indicates that the concentration of these jobs is very close to the national average. This suggests a balanced job market where demand and supply are relatively stable, without an overwhelming surplus or scarcity of professionals in this field compared to the rest of the country.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Computer and Mathematical Occupations
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Computer and Mathematical Occupations Salary | $81,930↓ 14% | 21 mi |
| Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Computer and Mathematical Occupations Salary | $81,300↓ 15% | 21 mi |
| Northeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Computer and Mathematical Occupations Salary | $83,850↓ 12% | 21 mi |
| Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Computer and Mathematical Occupations Salary | $82,160↓ 14% | 21 mi |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA Computer and Mathematical Occupations Salary | $100,550↑ 5% | 31 mi |
Comparing salaries near Ames, IA
Hiring Computer and Mathematical Occupationss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Computer and Mathematical Occupations make in Ames, IA?
The median annual salary for a Computer and Mathematical Occupations in Ames, IA is $95,470. This typically ranges from $56,920 for entry-level positions to $151,390 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Ames, IA is 19.9% lower than the national median of $119,220.
Is Ames, IA a lucrative place for Computer and Mathematical Occupationss?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.While the average salary of $95,470 is substantial, it falls below the national average of $119,220. However, the cost of living is also at the national average, meaning the salary offers standard purchasing power.
Is Ames, IA a good place to live for Computer and Mathematical Occupations?
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 ($81,930) and Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area.
How does the Ames, IA salary compare to the national average for Computer and Mathematical Occupations?
The average annual salary in Ames, IA is $95,470, which is lower than the national average of $119,220 for Computer and Mathematical Occupations.
What is the cost of living in Ames, IA relative to the national average?
Ames, IA has a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is exactly the national average, indicating that the general cost of goods and services is comparable to the rest of the United States.
How concentrated are Computer and Mathematical Occupations jobs in Ames, IA?
The concentration of these jobs in Ames, IA, measured by the Location Quotient, is 0.96, which is slightly below the national average of 1.0, suggesting a near-average presence of these roles.
What is the total number of Computer and Mathematical Occupations professionals in Ames, IA?
There are approximately 1,820 individuals employed in Computer and Mathematical Occupations in Ames, IA.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,820 employees in the Ames, IA area with a job density of 32.269 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Computer and Mathematical Occupations • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Ames, IA