Average Computer Systems Analysts Salary in Ames, IA
Computer Systems Analysts in Ames, IA, earn an average annual salary of $93,510. This figure is notably below the national average of $113,950, suggesting that local market dynamics and potentially a lower cost of living contribute to this compensation structure. While the nominal salary is lower, understanding the local economic landscape is crucial for a complete picture.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $93,510 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 11.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $116,530.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 200 Computer Systems Analysts and a Location Quotient of 1.12, Ames, IA, demonstrates a slightly higher concentration of these professionals than the national average. This indicates a stable, albeit not exceptionally booming, demand for their skills within the region, suggesting a consistent job market for experienced individuals.
Salary Overview
The average Computer Systems Analysts in Ames, IA earns-17.9%below the national average.
$45
$1,798
$7,793
Computer Systems Analysts Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Ames, IA is not provided, it is generally assumed that salaries for Computer Systems Analysts nationwide have experienced steady growth over the past four years, driven by technological advancements and increasing demand for IT infrastructure expertise. This upward trend is likely reflected to some degree in the Ames market, even if local factors moderate the overall increase.
Computer Systems Analysts Salary Distribution in Ames, IA
The salary progression for Computer Systems Analysts in Ames, IA, typically scales significantly with experience. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower percentiles, while senior analysts with specialized skills and extensive project management experience can command salaries in the higher percentiles. These percentile gaps highlight the clear career advancement opportunities and the value placed on seasoned professionals within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior / AssociateEntry level. Focus on learning core skills & codebase. | 10% (Entry) | $66,600 | $32 |
| Engineer IProficient contributor. Handles tasks independently. | 25% (Junior) | $70,133 | $33.7 |
| Senior EngineerSystem design, complex problem solving, mentoring. | 50% (Median) | $92,100 | $44.3 |
| Lead / StaffTechnical strategy, architecture, cross-team impact. | 75% (Senior) | $116,888 | $56.2 |
| Principal / ArchitectIndustry expert. Driving technical vision & innovation. | 90% (Expert) | $116,530 | $56 |
Detailed Computer Systems Analysts Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$93,510
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$93,510
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $93,510 in Ames, IA, aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a Computer Systems Analyst's salary in Ames is equivalent to that of a professional earning the national average salary in a location with average living costs, offering a stable financial standing.
Job Market Context
200
Total Jobs
3.623
Per 1K Jobs
1.12
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.12, Ames, IA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Computer Systems Analysts roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.12 signifies that Computer Systems Analysts are 12% more concentrated in Ames, IA, than the national average. This suggests a healthy, slightly above-average presence of these roles, indicating a competitive but accessible job market where specialized skills are valued and opportunities exist for those looking to enter or advance within the field.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Computer Systems Analysts
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Computer Systems Analysts Salary | $77,750↓ 17% | 21 mi |
| Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Computer Systems Analysts Salary | $86,240↓ 8% | 21 mi |
| Northeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Computer Systems Analysts Salary | $78,060↓ 17% | 21 mi |
| Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Computer Systems Analysts Salary | $81,100↓ 13% | 21 mi |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA Computer Systems Analysts Salary | $98,520↑ 5% | 31 mi |
Comparing salaries near Ames, IA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Computer Systems Analysts make in Ames, IA?
The median annual salary for a Computer Systems Analysts in Ames, IA is $93,510. This typically ranges from $66,600 for entry-level positions to $116,530 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Ames, IA is 17.9% lower than the national median of $113,950.
Is Ames, IA a lucrative place for Computer Systems Analysts?
Yes, relatively speaking.While the average salary is below the national average, the cost of living also matches the national average, making the purchasing power comparable. The slightly higher concentration of these roles suggests a stable market.
Is Ames, IA a good place to live for Computer Systems Analysts?
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 ($77,750) and Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area.
How does the Ames, IA salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Computer Systems Analysts in Ames, IA, is $93,510, which is lower than the national average of $113,950.
What is the concentration of Computer Systems Analysts in Ames, IA?
Ames, IA has a Location Quotient of 1.12 for Computer Systems Analysts, indicating a slightly higher concentration of these professionals compared to the national average.
How does the cost of living in Ames, IA affect salary perception?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, Ames, IA, matches the national average. This means the $93,510 salary offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average, despite being nominally lower.
What does the job market look like for Computer Systems Analysts in Ames, IA?
The market shows a stable demand with 3.623 jobs per 1,000 workers and a slightly higher concentration (LQ 1.12), suggesting consistent opportunities for skilled professionals.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 200 employees in the Ames, IA area with a job density of 3.623 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 Systems Analysts • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Ames, IA