Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand Salary in Waterloo, IA

In Waterloo, IA, laborers and freight, stock, and material movers who handle tasks manually earn a median annual salary of $43,380, which translates to approximately $20.85 per hour. This figure is notably higher than the national median for this occupation, standing at $38,940. When compared to local economic indicators, these earnings provide insight into the financial standing of typical workers within the community. The area's median household income is reported as $68,916, indicating that a single individual earning the median salary in this field would contribute significantly toward meeting or exceeding average household expenses, although they may still fall short when compared to dual-income households.

Entry-level laborers and freight handlers typically earn around the 10th percentile mark at approximately $34,820 annually. In contrast, more experienced workers can reach earnings near the 90th percentile, which is also $50,280 per year. The significant gap in pay between entry-level and highly experienced workers is driven by factors such as accumulated skill sets, efficiency in task completion, and familiarity with industry-specific practices that enhance productivity. Additionally, career advancement opportunities often lead to higher wage brackets, reflecting the value of experience and expertise within this occupation. With an estimated employment of 3,220 laborers in Waterloo, IA, these dynamics are crucial for understanding the earning potential across different stages of one's career in this field.