Average Computer Programmers Salary in Ames, IA
The average salary for Computer Programmerss in Ames, IA is $84,780. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Ames, IA may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $84,780 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 11.3% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $124,860.
- Outlook: The current demand for Computer Programmerss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 30 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Ames, IA economy.
Salary Overview
The average Computer Programmers in Ames, IA earns-19.3%below the national average.
$40.8
$1,630
$7,065
Computer Programmers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Computer Programmers salaries in Ames, IA have shown healthy growth of 11.3%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Computer Programmers Salary Distribution in Ames, IA
The earning potential for Computer Programmerss in Ames, IA varies significantly by experience level. The salary gap is relatively narrow, suggesting consistent and predictable earnings from entry-level to senior positions. Entry-level roles (10th percentile) typically start around $53,800, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $124,860.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior / AssociateEntry level. Focus on learning core skills & codebase. | 10% (Entry) | $53,800 | $25.9 |
| Engineer IProficient contributor. Handles tasks independently. | 25% (Junior) | $63,585 | $30.6 |
| Senior EngineerSystem design, complex problem solving, mentoring. | 50% (Median) | $84,930 | $40.8 |
| Lead / StaffTechnical strategy, architecture, cross-team impact. | 75% (Senior) | $105,975 | $50.9 |
| Principal / ArchitectIndustry expert. Driving technical vision & innovation. | 90% (Expert) | $124,860 | $60 |
Detailed Computer Programmers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$84,780
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$84,780
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Ames, IA, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $84,780 to $84,780.
Job Market Context
30
Total Jobs
0.577
Per 1K Jobs
0.81
Location Quotient
Ames, IA has 0.81x the national average concentration of Computer Programmers jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
30 people work as Computer Programmers in Ames, IA.
Only 0.577 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Computer Programmers roles — this is a niche profession in the area.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Computer Programmers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Computer Programmers Salary | $82,250↓ 3% | 21 mi |
| Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Computer Programmers Salary | $76,650↓ 10% | 21 mi |
| Northeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Computer Programmers Salary | $84,140↓ 1% | 21 mi |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA Computer Programmers Salary | $93,640↑ 10% | 31 mi |
Comparing salaries near Ames, IA
Hiring Computer Programmerss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Computer Programmers make in Ames, IA?
The median annual salary for a Computer Programmers in Ames, IA is $84,780. This typically ranges from $53,800 for entry-level positions to $124,860 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Ames, IA is 19.3% lower than the national median of $105,010.
Is Ames, IA a good place for Computer Programmerss?
It depends on your priorities. While the average Computer Programmers salary in Ames, IA is $84,780 (below the national average), the area may offer a lower cost of living or other lifestyle benefits typical of Ames, IA. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Ames, IA a good place to live for Computer Programmers?
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 ($82,250) and Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 30 employees in the Ames, IA area with a job density of 0.577 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 Programmers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Ames, IA