Average Speech-Language Pathologists Salary in Decatur, AL
The average salary for Speech-Language Pathologistss in Decatur, AL is $69,870. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Decatur, AL may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $69,870 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 33.9% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $96,610.
- Outlook: The current demand for Speech-Language Pathologistss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 50 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Decatur, AL economy.
Salary Overview
The average Speech-Language Pathologists in Decatur, AL earns-31.3%below the national average.
$33.6
$1,344
$5,823
Speech-Language Pathologists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Speech-Language Pathologists salaries in Decatur, AL have experienced a rapid surge, growing by 33.9%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Speech-Language Pathologists Salary Distribution in Decatur, AL
The earning potential for Speech-Language Pathologistss in Decatur, AL 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 $52,960, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $96,610.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $52,960 | $25.5 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $52,403 | $25.2 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $66,770 | $32.1 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $87,338 | $42 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $96,610 | $46.4 |
Detailed Speech-Language Pathologists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$69,870
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$69,870
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Decatur, AL, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $69,870 to $69,870.
Job Market Context
50
Total Jobs
0.86
Per 1K Jobs
0.74
Location Quotient
Decatur, AL has 0.74x the national average concentration of Speech-Language Pathologists jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
50 people work as Speech-Language Pathologists in Decatur, AL.
Only 0.86 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Speech-Language Pathologists roles — this is a niche profession in the area.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Speech-Language Pathologists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Huntsville, AL Speech-Language Pathologists Salary | $77,870↑ 11% | 22 mi |
| Florence-Muscle Shoals, AL Speech-Language Pathologists Salary | $75,590↑ 8% | 42 mi |
| Gadsden, AL Speech-Language Pathologists Salary | $83,950↑ 20% | 68 mi |
| Birmingham, AL Speech-Language Pathologists Salary | $83,450↑ 19% | 73 mi |
| East Tennessee nonmetropolitan area Speech-Language Pathologists Salary | $83,870↑ 20% | 83 mi |
Comparing salaries near Decatur, AL
Hiring Speech-Language Pathologistss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Speech-Language Pathologists make in Decatur, AL?
The median annual salary for a Speech-Language Pathologists in Decatur, AL is $69,870. This typically ranges from $52,960 for entry-level positions to $96,610 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Decatur, AL is 31.3% lower than the national median of $101,660.
Is Decatur, AL a good place for Speech-Language Pathologistss?
It depends on your priorities. While the average Speech-Language Pathologists salary in Decatur, AL is $69,870 (below the national average), the area may offer a lower cost of living or other lifestyle benefits typical of Decatur, AL. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Decatur, AL a good place to live for Speech-Language Pathologists?
The Cost of Living Index in Decatur, AL is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Decatur, AL?
Some top paying nearby cities include Huntsville, AL ($77,870) and Florence-Muscle Shoals, AL.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 50 employees in the Decatur, AL area with a job density of 0.86 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Speech-Language Pathologists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Decatur, AL