Average Speech-Language Pathologists Salary in Wichita, KS
Speech-Language Pathologists in Wichita, KS, can expect an average annual salary of $81,940. This figure is notably below the national average of $101,660, suggesting that local market dynamics and demand play a significant role in compensation within this Midwestern city. Factors such as the specific healthcare landscape and the overall economic environment of Wichita contribute to this pay differential.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $81,940 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 9.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $117,650.
- Outlook: Wichita, KS, supports a dedicated workforce of 430 Speech-Language Pathologists. With a Location Quotient of 1.2, the concentration of these professionals in Wichita is slightly higher than the national average, indicating a stable and potentially growing demand for their specialized skills within the local job market. The presence of 1.395 jobs per 1,000 workers further underscores the consistent need for SLPs in the area.
Salary Overview
The average Speech-Language Pathologists in Wichita, KS earns-19.4%below the national average.
$39.4
$1,576
$6,828
Speech-Language Pathologists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Wichita is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that Speech-Language Pathologist salaries in the region have experienced a gradual upward trend over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. This growth is typically driven by increasing demand for healthcare services, advancements in therapeutic techniques, and a persistent need for qualified professionals across various settings.
Speech-Language Pathologists Salary Distribution in Wichita, KS
The career trajectory for Speech-Language Pathologists in Wichita, KS, offers significant earning potential as experience accumulates. Entry-level positions typically command lower salaries, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized certifications can achieve substantially higher compensation. The widening salary gap between junior and senior practitioners reflects the value placed on expertise and a proven track record in the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $54,750 | $26.3 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $61,455 | $29.5 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $78,280 | $37.6 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $102,425 | $49.2 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $117,650 | $56.6 |
Detailed Speech-Language Pathologists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$81,940
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$81,940
Adjusted for COL (100)
For Speech-Language Pathologists considering a move to Wichita, KS, the average salary of $81,940 aligns perfectly with the national average cost of living, which is indexed at 100. This means that the purchasing power of an SLP's salary in Wichita is equivalent to that of their national counterparts, making it a financially neutral relocation from a cost-of-living perspective.
Job Market Context
430
Total Jobs
1.395
Per 1K Jobs
1.2
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.20, Wichita, KS has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Speech-Language Pathologists roles compared to the national norm.
Wichita, KS, exhibits a slightly above-average concentration of Speech-Language Pathologists, as indicated by its Location Quotient of 1.2. This suggests that the job market is neither oversaturated nor exceptionally scarce, presenting a balanced environment for job seekers. While there is a notable presence of SLPs, the demand appears to keep pace, offering reasonable opportunities for qualified professionals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Speech-Language Pathologists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas nonmetropolitan area Speech-Language Pathologists Salary | $80,790↓ 1% | 67 mi |
Comparing salaries near Wichita, KS
Hiring Speech-Language Pathologistss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Speech-Language Pathologists make in Wichita, KS?
The median annual salary for a Speech-Language Pathologists in Wichita, KS is $81,940. This typically ranges from $54,750 for entry-level positions to $117,650 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Wichita, KS is 19.4% lower than the national median of $101,660.
Is Wichita, KS a lucrative place for Speech-Language Pathologists?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.While the average salary of $81,940 is substantial, it falls below the national average of $101,660. However, the cost of living being at the national average means the salary's purchasing power is comparable.
Is Wichita, KS a good place to live for Speech-Language Pathologists?
The Cost of Living Index in Wichita, KS is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Wichita, KS?
Some top paying nearby cities include Kansas nonmetropolitan area ($80,790) and others.
How does Wichita's SLP salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Speech-Language Pathologists in Wichita, KS, is $81,940, which is lower than the national average of $101,660.
What is the cost of living in Wichita, KS for SLPs?
Wichita, KS, has a cost of living index of 100, which is exactly the national average, meaning the general cost of goods and services is comparable to the rest of the country.
Is there high demand for Speech-Language Pathologists in Wichita?
With a Location Quotient of 1.2 and 1.395 jobs per 1,000 workers, the demand for SLPs in Wichita is slightly above the national average, indicating a healthy job market.
How many Speech-Language Pathologists work in Wichita, KS?
There are approximately 430 Speech-Language Pathologists employed in Wichita, KS.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 430 employees in the Wichita, KS area with a job density of 1.395 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 Wichita, KS