SalaryNode

Average Light Truck Drivers Salary in East South Dakota nonmetropolitan area

Light Truck Drivers in the East South Dakota nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $44,160. This figure is slightly below the national average of $47,920, reflecting the unique economic dynamics and potentially lower operational costs prevalent in nonmetropolitan regions. Factors such as local demand and the cost of doing business often influence regional pay scales.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $44,160 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 22.7% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $57,220.
  • Outlook: With a local workforce of 1,230 Light Truck Drivers, the East South Dakota nonmetropolitan area demonstrates a significant concentration of this profession, indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.43. This suggests that the role is more prevalent here than the national average, pointing towards a robust and potentially growing job market for these essential workers.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$44,160

The average Light Truck Drivers in East South Dakota nonmetropolitan area earns-7.8%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$21.2

Weekly

$849

Monthly

$3,680

Light Truck Drivers Salary Distribution in East South Dakota nonmetropolitan area

Salary progression for Light Truck Drivers typically correlates with experience and skill development. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of the pay scale, while senior drivers with extensive experience, specialized certifications, or supervisory responsibilities can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings clearly signify opportunities for career advancement within the field.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$27,990$13.5
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$33,120$15.9
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$44,400$21.3
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$55,200$26.5
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$57,220$27.5

Detailed Light Truck Drivers Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$44,160

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$44,160

Adjusted for COL (100)

The nominal average salary of $44,160 in the East South Dakota nonmetropolitan area aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a Light Truck Driver's salary in this region is equivalent to the national average, offering stable financial stability without the premium costs often associated with higher cost-of-living areas.

Job Market Context

1,230

Total Jobs

9.225

Per 1K Jobs

1.43

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.43, East South Dakota nonmetropolitan area has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Light Truck Drivers roles compared to the national norm.

The Location Quotient of 1.43 for Light Truck Drivers in East South Dakota's nonmetropolitan area indicates a higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average. This suggests a competitive market where demand may outstrip supply in certain pockets, potentially leading to better opportunities and negotiation power for skilled drivers.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Light Truck Driverss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Light Truck Drivers make in East South Dakota nonmetropolitan area?

The median annual salary for a Light Truck Drivers in East South Dakota nonmetropolitan area is $44,160. This typically ranges from $27,990 for entry-level positions to $57,220 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in East South Dakota nonmetropolitan area is 7.8% lower than the national median of $47,920.

Is East South Dakota nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Light Truck Drivers?

Yes, it offers competitive earning potential relative to its cost of living.While the average salary is slightly below the national average, the Cost of Living Index is also at the national average, making the nominal salary hold its value. The high Location Quotient suggests strong local demand for the role.

Is East South Dakota nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Light Truck Drivers?

The Cost of Living Index in East South Dakota nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

How does the number of Light Truck Drivers in East South Dakota compare nationally?

With 1,230 Light Truck Drivers, this region has a notable presence, and the Location Quotient of 1.43 signifies a higher concentration than the national average.

What is the significance of the Location Quotient (LQ) for Light Truck Drivers in this area?

An LQ of 1.43 means that Light Truck Drivers are 43% more concentrated in East South Dakota's nonmetropolitan areas than in the U.S. overall, indicating a specialized local job market.

Does the Cost of Living affect the value of a Light Truck Driver's salary in East South Dakota?

No, the Cost of Living Index is exactly 100, matching the national average. This means the $44,160 salary has the same purchasing power as the national average salary.

Are there many job opportunities for Light Truck Drivers in East South Dakota?

The substantial workforce size and high Location Quotient suggest a healthy and active job market with numerous opportunities for Light Truck Drivers in this region.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,230 employees in the East South Dakota nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 9.225 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.