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Average Respiratory Therapists Salary in Ames, IA

The average salary for Respiratory Therapistss in Ames, IA is $71,720. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Ames, IA may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $71,720 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 0.0% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $81,380.
  • Outlook: The current demand for Respiratory Therapistss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 30 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Ames, IA economy.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$71,720

The average Respiratory Therapists in Ames, IA earns-15.2%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$34.5

Weekly

$1,379

Monthly

$5,977

Respiratory Therapists Salary Distribution in Ames, IA

The earning potential for Respiratory Therapistss 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 $58,180, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $81,380.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience.10% (Entry)$58,180$28
Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures.25% (Junior)$53,790$25.9
Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification.50% (Median)$76,340$36.7
SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases.75% (Senior)$89,650$43.1
Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider.90% (Expert)$81,380$39.1

Detailed Respiratory Therapists Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$71,720

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$71,720

Adjusted for COL (100)

In Ames, IA, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $71,720 to $71,720.

Job Market Context

30

Total Jobs

0.549

Per 1K Jobs

0.62

Location Quotient

Below Average

Ames, IA has 0.62x the national average concentration of Respiratory Therapists jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.

30 people work as Respiratory Therapists in Ames, IA.

Only 0.549 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Respiratory Therapists roles — this is a niche profession in the area.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Respiratory Therapistss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Respiratory Therapists make in Ames, IA?

The median annual salary for a Respiratory Therapists in Ames, IA is $71,720. This typically ranges from $58,180 for entry-level positions to $81,380 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Ames, IA is 15.2% lower than the national median of $84,540.

Is Ames, IA a good place for Respiratory Therapistss?

It depends on your priorities. While the average Respiratory Therapists salary in Ames, IA is $71,720 (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 Respiratory Therapists?

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 ($70,140) 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 30 employees in the Ames, IA area with a job density of 0.549 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.