Average Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary in Lancaster, PA
Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Lancaster, PA earn an average annual salary of $42,960. This figure is notably below the national average of $51,720, suggesting that local economic factors and potentially a different demand structure influence compensation in this region. While the national average reflects broader market trends, Lancaster's specific economic landscape plays a crucial role in setting this localized pay rate.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $42,960 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 8.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $64,040.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 280 individuals in this role, Lancaster, PA presents a moderate employment base for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors. The Location Quotient of 1.22 indicates a slightly higher concentration of these jobs compared to the national average, suggesting a stable, albeit not booming, demand for these essential services within the local economy. This concentration implies a consistent need for waste management professionals in the area.
Salary Overview
The average Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Lancaster, PA earns-16.9%below the national average.
$20.7
$826
$3,580
Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Lancaster's Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector salaries over the past four years is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general upward trend mirroring national patterns. Economic shifts, inflation, and evolving waste management practices typically contribute to gradual salary increases over time. Therefore, professionals in this field in Lancaster likely have experienced modest growth in their earning potential over the last few years.
Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary Distribution in Lancaster, PA
Salary progression for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Lancaster, PA, typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions will naturally command lower salaries, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills can expect to earn significantly more. The gap between the lowest and highest percentile salaries reflects this career trajectory, offering clear opportunities for advancement and increased earning potential as one gains expertise and tenure in the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $24,230 | $11.6 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $32,220 | $15.5 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $38,390 | $18.5 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $53,700 | $25.8 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $64,040 | $30.8 |
Detailed Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$42,960
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$42,960
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $42,960 in Lancaster, PA, aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the nominal salary holds its purchasing power directly against the national standard, offering no immediate advantage or disadvantage in terms of real income compared to the average US city. Residents can expect their earnings to cover typical living expenses at a rate consistent with national benchmarks.
Job Market Context
280
Total Jobs
1.103
Per 1K Jobs
1.22
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.22, Lancaster, PA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors roles compared to the national norm.
Lancaster, PA, exhibits a Location Quotient of 1.22 for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors, indicating that this profession is approximately 22% more concentrated in the area than the national average. This suggests a slightly more robust demand or a larger relative presence of these jobs within Lancaster's labor market compared to the rest of the country. While not an exceptionally high concentration, it points to a healthy and stable job market for these essential workers.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| York-Hanover, PA Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary | $45,010↑ 5% | 23 mi |
| Reading, PA Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary | $43,260↑ 1% | 29 mi |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary | $53,420↑ 24% | 35 mi |
Comparing salaries near Lancaster, PA
Hiring Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectorss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors make in Lancaster, PA?
The median annual salary for a Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Lancaster, PA is $42,960. This typically ranges from $24,230 for entry-level positions to $64,040 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Lancaster, PA is 16.9% lower than the national median of $51,720.
Is Lancaster, PA a lucrative place for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors?
No, not compared to the national average.While the salary aligns with the local cost of living, the average annual salary of $42,960 is below the national average of $51,720. The job market shows a slightly higher concentration, indicating steady demand but not necessarily higher pay.
Is Lancaster, PA a good place to live for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors?
The Cost of Living Index in Lancaster, PA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Lancaster, PA?
Some top paying nearby cities include York-Hanover, PA ($45,010) and Reading, PA.
How does Lancaster's cost of living affect salary perception?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, Lancaster's cost of living is exactly at the national average. This means the $42,960 salary provides purchasing power equivalent to the national average, making the lower nominal salary less impactful than it might be in a high-cost area.
What does the Location Quotient of 1.22 mean for job seekers?
A Location Quotient of 1.22 signifies that there are more Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector jobs per capita in Lancaster than the national average. This suggests a potentially more accessible job market for those seeking employment in this field within the city.
Are there many Refuse and Recyclable Material Collector jobs in Lancaster?
With a total local workforce of 280 in this role and a jobs-per-1,000-workers ratio of 1.103, Lancaster supports a consistent number of these positions relative to its overall employment landscape.
How does experience impact salary for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Lancaster?
Experience is a key driver of salary. Entry-level collectors will earn less, while those with several years of experience and a proven track record can command higher wages, reflecting increased skill and responsibility within the role.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 280 employees in the Lancaster, PA area with a job density of 1.103 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Lancaster, PA