Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in the Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $32,980. This figure significantly trails the national average of $51,720, reflecting regional economic factors and potentially lower demand for specialized collection services in less densely populated areas. The pay scale in this region is thus dictated by local market conditions rather than broader national trends.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $32,980 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 0.0% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $45,710.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 710 individuals in this role, the Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area demonstrates a notable concentration of Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors. The Location Quotient of 3.09 indicates that this occupation is substantially more prevalent here than the national average, suggesting a robust and consistent demand for these essential services within the region's economy.
Salary Overview
The average Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area earns-36.2%below the national average.
$15.9
$634
$2,748
Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Western North Carolina have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring general economic trends and inflation. This upward trajectory, though potentially modest compared to national averages, would reflect an ongoing need for waste management services and adjustments to labor costs.
Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary Distribution in Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area
Career progression for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors typically involves a salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while senior collectors with extensive experience and specialized skills can command higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings signify distinct levels of responsibility and expertise, offering a clear path for career advancement within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $23,680 | $11.4 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $24,735 | $11.9 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $31,780 | $15.3 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $41,225 | $19.8 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $45,710 | $22 |
Detailed Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$32,980
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$32,980
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $32,980 in the Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that while the take-home pay is lower than the national average for this profession, the purchasing power of that salary is equivalent to the national average, suggesting that the cost of essential goods and services is comparable.
Job Market Context
710
Total Jobs
2.785
Per 1K Jobs
3.09
Location Quotient
Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area has 3.1x the national concentration of Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
The Location Quotient of 3.09 for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan areas signifies a highly concentrated job market. This indicates that the occupation is significantly more common in this region compared to the national average, suggesting a strong local demand and a potentially competitive environment for new entrants seeking employment in this sector.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Greensboro-High Point, NC Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary | $43,360↑ 31% | 32 mi |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines, NC Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary | $35,200↑ 7% | 36 mi |
| Burlington, NC Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary | $42,040↑ 27% | 36 mi |
| Winston-Salem, NC Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary | $40,370↑ 22% | 41 mi |
| Durham-Chapel Hill, NC Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors Salary | $45,190↑ 37% | 56 mi |
Comparing salaries near Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area
Hiring Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectorss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors make in Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors in Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area is $32,980. This typically ranges from $23,680 for entry-level positions to $45,710 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area is 36.2% lower than the national median of $51,720.
Is Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectorss?
No, it is not a particularly lucrative place.The average salary of $32,980 is substantially lower than the national average, although the cost of living is on par with the national average. This indicates that while expenses may be similar, the earning potential is considerably less.
Is Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors?
The Cost of Living Index in Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Greensboro-High Point, NC ($43,360) and Pinehurst-Southern Pines, NC.
How does the number of jobs per 1,000 workers compare nationally?
With 2.785 jobs per 1,000 workers, this occupation is more concentrated in the Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area than the national average, as indicated by the Location Quotient.
What is the significance of the Location Quotient (LQ) of 3.09?
An LQ of 3.09 means that Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors are employed in this region at a rate more than three times the national average, highlighting a strong regional specialization.
Does the cost of living affect the perceived value of the salary?
Yes, the cost of living index of 100 means the salary's purchasing power is average nationally. Therefore, the lower nominal salary directly translates to less disposable income compared to higher-paying regions with similar living costs.
What does the total local workforce size of 710 imply?
A workforce of 710 indicates a substantial number of individuals are employed in this role locally, reinforcing the high concentration suggested by the Location Quotient and suggesting a stable, albeit lower-paying, job market.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 710 employees in the Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 2.785 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 Western North Carolina nonmetropolitan area