SalaryNode

Average Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary in Rapid City, SD

In Rapid City, SD, professionals in Transportation and Material Moving Occupations earn an average annual salary of $42,440. This figure is below the national average of $48,350, reflecting regional economic factors and the specific demand within the local market. The pay scale in Rapid City is influenced by the unique economic landscape and the concentration of these roles within the state.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $42,440 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 18.3% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $60,140.
  • Outlook: The Transportation and Material Moving sector in Rapid City, SD, comprises a workforce of 5,390 individuals. With a Location Quotient of 0.85, this indicates a slightly lower concentration of these jobs compared to the national average. While not a dominant sector in terms of relative employment, the steady presence of nearly 75 jobs per 1,000 workers suggests a consistent, albeit not exceptionally high, demand for these essential roles within the local economy.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$42,440

The average Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Rapid City, SD earns-12.2%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$20.4

Weekly

$816

Monthly

$3,537

Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary Distribution in Rapid City, SD

Within the Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Rapid City, SD, career progression significantly impacts earning potential. Entry-level positions typically start at the lower end of the salary spectrum, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills can command substantially higher salaries. The widening gap between entry-level and senior-level compensation reflects the value placed on expertise and tenure in this field, offering a clear path for career advancement.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$28,150$13.5
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$31,830$15.3
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$38,350$18.4
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$53,050$25.5
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$60,140$28.9

Detailed Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$42,440

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$42,440

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $42,440 in Rapid City, SD, aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the nominal income earned by transportation and material moving professionals in Rapid City holds purchasing power equivalent to the national average. Consequently, the salary offers a standard lifestyle relative to national benchmarks, without the added financial pressure of a significantly higher cost of living.

Job Market Context

5,390

Total Jobs

74.982

Per 1K Jobs

0.85

Location Quotient

Below Average

Rapid City, SD has 0.85x the national average concentration of Transportation and Material Moving Occupations jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.

With a Location Quotient of 0.85, the Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Rapid City, SD, are present at a slightly lower concentration than the national average. This suggests that while the roles are established and necessary, the market is not oversaturated. This equilibrium can be advantageous for job seekers, indicating a stable demand without intense competition, and for employers, suggesting a manageable recruitment landscape.

Nearby Job Markets

Hiring Transportation and Material Moving Occupationss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Transportation and Material Moving Occupations make in Rapid City, SD?

The median annual salary for a Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Rapid City, SD is $42,440. This typically ranges from $28,150 for entry-level positions to $60,140 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Rapid City, SD is 12.2% lower than the national median of $48,350.

Is Rapid City, SD a lucrative place for Transportation and Material Moving Occupationss?

No, it is not exceptionally lucrative.The average salary of $42,440 is below the national average, and the sector's concentration (Location Quotient) is slightly lower than the national benchmark.

Is Rapid City, SD a good place to live for Transportation and Material Moving Occupations?

The Cost of Living Index in Rapid City, SD is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.

How does the cost of living in Rapid City, SD compare nationally?

Rapid City, SD, has a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is exactly the national average. This means that the general cost of goods and services is comparable to the rest of the United States.

What is the total number of workers in Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Rapid City, SD?

There are 5,390 individuals employed in Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Rapid City, SD.

Is the job market for Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Rapid City, SD competitive?

The market is moderately competitive, with a Location Quotient of 0.85 indicating a slightly lower concentration of these jobs compared to the national average, suggesting stable demand.

What is the average salary for Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Rapid City, SD?

The average annual salary for Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Rapid City, SD, is $42,440.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 5,390 employees in the Rapid City, SD area with a job density of 74.982 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.