Average Cost Estimators Salary in Ames, IA
The average salary for a Cost Estimators in Ames, IA is $79,910. This compensation is in line with national standards, reflecting a balanced and stable local job market.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $79,910 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 8.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $121,140.
- Outlook: The current demand for Cost Estimatorss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 70 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Ames, IA economy.
Salary Overview
The average Cost Estimators in Ames, IA earns-3.9%below the national average.
$38.4
$1,537
$6,659
Cost Estimators Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Cost Estimators salaries in Ames, IA have remained stable with a modest increase of 8.4%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Cost Estimators Salary Distribution in Ames, IA
The earning potential for Cost Estimatorss 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 $51,810, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $121,140.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate / AnalystData entry, reporting, supporting senior staff. | 10% (Entry) | $51,810 | $24.9 |
| Senior AnalystIndependent analysis, forecasting, client interaction. | 25% (Junior) | $59,933 | $28.8 |
| ManagerOversees team, compliance, and project delivery. | 50% (Median) | $79,710 | $38.3 |
| Director / VPStrategic planning, budget ownership, risk management. | 75% (Senior) | $99,888 | $48 |
| Executive / PartnerC-level leadership. High-level strategy & relations. | 90% (Expert) | $121,140 | $58.2 |
Detailed Cost Estimators Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$79,910
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$79,910
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Ames, IA, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $79,910 to $79,910.
Job Market Context
70
Total Jobs
1.326
Per 1K Jobs
0.93
Location Quotient
Ames, IA has 0.93x the national average concentration of Cost Estimators jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
70 people work as Cost Estimators in Ames, IA.
1.326 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Cost Estimators positions — a typical concentration.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Cost Estimators
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Cost Estimators Salary | $77,140↓ 3% | 21 mi |
| Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Cost Estimators Salary | $79,470↓ 1% | 21 mi |
| Northeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Cost Estimators Salary | $72,960↓ 9% | 21 mi |
| Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Cost Estimators Salary | $74,780↓ 6% | 21 mi |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA Cost Estimators Salary | $79,530↓ 0% | 31 mi |
Comparing salaries near Ames, IA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Cost Estimators make in Ames, IA?
The median annual salary for a Cost Estimators in Ames, IA is $79,910. This typically ranges from $51,810 for entry-level positions to $121,140 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Ames, IA is 3.9% lower than the national median of $83,140.
Is Ames, IA a good place for Cost Estimatorss?
It depends on your priorities. While the average Cost Estimators salary in Ames, IA is $79,910 (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 Cost Estimators?
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 ($77,140) 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 70 employees in the Ames, IA area with a job density of 1.326 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Cost Estimators • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Ames, IA