Average Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary in Topeka, KS
In Topeka, KS, professionals in Transportation and Material Moving Occupations can expect an average annual salary of $44,840. This figure is slightly below the national average of $48,350, a common occurrence in regional markets where local economic factors and demand influence compensation levels. The specific pay rates in Topeka are shaped by the unique interplay of local industry needs and the overall economic landscape of the state.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $44,840 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 24.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $61,150.
- Outlook: Topeka, KS, supports a substantial workforce of 9,660 individuals within Transportation and Material Moving Occupations. With a location quotient of 0.97, the concentration of these roles is nearly on par with the national average, indicating a stable and established presence in the local job market. The presence of 85.866 jobs per 1,000 workers suggests a consistent demand for these essential services within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Topeka, KS earns-7.3%below the national average.
$21.6
$862
$3,737
Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Topeka's Transportation and Material Moving Occupations is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general trend of salary growth over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Economic shifts, inflation, and evolving industry demands typically drive incremental increases in compensation, ensuring that wages keep pace with the cost of living and labor market dynamics.
Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary Distribution in Topeka, KS
Within the Transportation and Material Moving Occupations sector in Topeka, KS, career progression is clearly reflected in salary potential. Entry-level positions typically start at lower pay scales, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills command significantly higher earnings. The widening gap between entry-level and senior-level salaries, often seen across different pay percentiles, signifies robust opportunities for career advancement and increased earning capacity.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $29,140 | $14 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $33,630 | $16.2 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $44,050 | $21.2 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $56,050 | $26.9 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $61,150 | $29.4 |
Detailed Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$44,840
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$44,840
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $44,840 in Topeka, KS, aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national benchmark. This means that the purchasing power of the salary in Topeka is equivalent to the national average. Therefore, the nominal salary offers a comparable standard of living to that experienced elsewhere in the United States, without the premium often associated with higher cost-of-living areas.
Job Market Context
9,660
Total Jobs
85.866
Per 1K Jobs
0.97
Location Quotient
Topeka, KS has 0.97x 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 0.97, the market for Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Topeka, KS, is closely aligned with the national average in terms of concentration. This suggests a balanced job market where the number of professionals in this field is neither significantly overabundant nor notably scarce compared to the rest of the country. Such equilibrium typically points to a competitive yet accessible employment landscape for skilled individuals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Transportation and Material Moving Occupations
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Lawrence, KS Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary | $42,440↓ 5% | 24 mi |
| Manhattan, KS Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary | $39,410↓ 12% | 50 mi |
| Kansas City, MO-KS Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary | $47,480↑ 6% | 60 mi |
| Kansas nonmetropolitan area Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary | $44,530↓ 1% | 66 mi |
| St. Joseph, MO-KS Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary | $44,810↓ 0% | 68 mi |
Comparing salaries near Topeka, KS
Hiring Transportation and Material Moving Occupationss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Transportation and Material Moving Occupations make in Topeka, KS?
The median annual salary for a Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in Topeka, KS is $44,840. This typically ranges from $29,140 for entry-level positions to $61,150 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Topeka, KS is 7.3% lower than the national median of $48,350.
Is Topeka, KS a lucrative place for Transportation and Material Moving Occupationss?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $44,840 is below the national average of $48,350, although the cost of living is also at the national average. This indicates that while your money may go as far, the nominal earnings are lower.
Is Topeka, KS a good place to live for Transportation and Material Moving Occupations?
The Cost of Living Index in Topeka, KS is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Topeka, KS?
Some top paying nearby cities include Lawrence, KS ($42,440) and Manhattan, KS.
How does Topeka's Transportation and Material Moving job market compare nationally?
Topeka's job market for these occupations is very similar to the national average, with a location quotient of 0.97 indicating a comparable concentration of roles.
What is the average number of Transportation and Material Moving jobs per 1,000 workers in Topeka?
There are approximately 85.866 jobs per 1,000 workers in Topeka for these occupations, reflecting a solid presence in the local economy.
Does experience significantly impact salary in Topeka's transportation sector?
Yes, experience is a key driver of salary growth, with higher percentiles representing substantially greater earning potential for senior roles.
Is the cost of living in Topeka higher or lower than the national average?
The cost of living in Topeka is exactly at the national average, with an index of 100, meaning your salary's purchasing power is standard.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 9,660 employees in the Topeka, KS area with a job density of 85.866 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Transportation and Material Moving Occupations • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Topeka, KS