SalaryNode

Average Protective Service Occupations Salary in Ames, IA

In Ames, IA, professionals in Protective Service Occupations earn an average annual salary of $59,180. This figure significantly surpasses the national average of $43,820, indicating a localized premium for these essential roles. Factors such as the specific demand within Ames and the local economic landscape likely contribute to this elevated compensation.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $59,180 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 11.7% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $87,140.
  • Outlook: The Protective Service Occupations sector in Ames, IA, comprises a workforce of 610 individuals. With a Location Quotient of 0.46, the concentration of these jobs is below the national average, suggesting a potentially less saturated but specialized market. The presence of 10.868 jobs per 1,000 workers indicates a steady, albeit not overwhelmingly high, demand for these services within the local economy.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$59,180

The average Protective Service Occupations in Ames, IA earns+35.1%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$28.5

Weekly

$1,138

Monthly

$4,932

Protective Service Occupations Salary Distribution in Ames, IA

Career progression within Protective Service Occupations in Ames, IA, is typically reflected in salary increases. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings serve as a clear indicator of the career trajectory and earning potential available through dedication and skill development.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period.10% (Entry)$31,260$15
OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls.25% (Junior)$44,385$21.3
Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit.50% (Median)$56,000$26.9
Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader.75% (Senior)$73,975$35.6
Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration.90% (Expert)$87,140$41.9

Detailed Protective Service Occupations Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$59,180

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$59,180

Adjusted for COL (100)

For individuals considering a move to Ames, IA, the average salary of $59,180 aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the purchasing power of the salary in Ames is equivalent to the national average, offering a stable financial foundation without the added pressure of a higher cost of living.

Job Market Context

610

Total Jobs

10.868

Per 1K Jobs

0.46

Location Quotient

Low Concentration

At 0.46x, Ames, IA has a notably lower concentration of Protective Service Occupations jobs than the national average. Opportunities in this area are relatively scarce for this profession.

The Location Quotient of 0.46 for Protective Service Occupations in Ames, IA, suggests that this sector is less concentrated than the national average. This could imply fewer job opportunities compared to other regions, but it also might mean less competition for available positions, potentially offering a unique advantage to skilled professionals entering the local market.

Nearby Job Markets

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Protective Service Occupations make in Ames, IA?

The median annual salary for a Protective Service Occupations in Ames, IA is $59,180. This typically ranges from $31,260 for entry-level positions to $87,140 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Ames, IA is 35.1% higher than the national median of $43,820.

Is Ames, IA a lucrative place for Protective Service Occupationss?

Yes, it offers above-average compensation.Protective Service Occupations in Ames, IA, earn an average of $59,180, which is considerably higher than the national average. This strong salary is balanced by a cost of living that matches the national average.

Is Ames, IA a good place to live for Protective Service 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 ($54,030) and Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area.

How does the Ames, IA salary compare to the national average for Protective Service Occupations?

The average annual salary for Protective Service Occupations in Ames, IA, is $59,180, which is substantially higher than the national average of $43,820.

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 nationwide.

How concentrated is the Protective Service Occupations job market in Ames, IA?

The job market for Protective Service Occupations in Ames, IA, has a Location Quotient of 0.46, meaning it is less concentrated than the national average.

What is the total number of Protective Service Occupations workers in Ames, IA?

There are approximately 610 individuals employed in Protective Service 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 610 employees in the Ames, IA area with a job density of 10.868 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.