Louisiana salaries by occupation
The median worker in Louisiana earned $43,770 a year in 2024, about $21.05 an hour, 11.6% below the national median of $49,500. The state reports wages for 583 occupations.
Median pay $43,770 $21.05 per hour
Vs national median -11.6% U.S. $49,500
Workers 1,911,530 wage and salary
Occupations reported 583 with at least 100 employed
What Louisiana is unusually full of
Location quotient measures how concentrated an occupation is here against the country as a whole. A value of 3 means the state employs three times the national share of those workers. It describes a labour market far better than a list of the biggest employers, which in every state is dominated by retail and food service.
| Occupation | Concentration | Employed | Median pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sailors and Marine Oilers | 19.21× | 7,470 | $44,380 |
| Chemical Plant and System Operators | 15.21× | 3,360 | $96,500 |
| Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels | 14.38× | 6,310 | $103,430 |
| Boilermakers | 12.89× | 1,620 | $76,320 |
| Transportation Workers, All Other | 12.15× | 1,650 | $34,040 |
| Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas | 11.05× | 1,510 | $84,410 |
| Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumpers | 9.66× | 1,510 | $60,840 |
| Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Workers, All Other | 8.34× | 3,820 | $66,190 |
| Petroleum Pump System Operators, Refinery Operators, and Gaugers | 8.14× | 3,520 | $98,930 |
| Tank Car, Truck, and Ship Loaders | 7.91× | 1,070 | $62,300 |
Metro areas in Louisiana
Pay varies more between cities than between states, and a statewide median averages over that. These are the 10 Louisiana metropolitan areas the survey covers.
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Workers | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baton Rouge | $47,940 | $23.05 | 403,240 | #142 |
| New Orleans-Metairie | $45,970 | $22.10 | 441,250 | #221 |
| Lake Charles | $45,170 | $21.72 | 100,270 | #255 |
| Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux | $44,150 | $21.23 | 82,770 | #292 |
| Shreveport-Bossier City | $42,270 | $20.32 | 159,970 | #324 |
| Slidell-Mandeville-Covington | $40,760 | $19.60 | 100,690 | #347 |
| Lafayette | $39,600 | $19.04 | 175,530 | #360 |
| Alexandria | $39,510 | $19.00 | 59,310 | #362 |
| Monroe | $37,000 | $17.79 | 87,150 | #377 |
| Hammond | $36,960 | $17.77 | 47,380 | #378 |
Highest paying occupations
| Occupation | Median | Hourly | Employed | Rank of states |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nurse Anesthetists | $225,440 | $108.39 | 890 | #11 of 25 |
| General Internal Medicine Physicians | $203,740 | $97.95 | 1,000 | #9 of 15 |
| Dentists, General | $179,600 | $86.35 | 1,140 | #17 of 46 |
| Architectural and Engineering Managers | $167,840 | $80.69 | 1,390 | #17 of 49 |
| Petroleum Engineers | $134,630 | $64.73 | 920 | #8 of 16 |
| Industrial Production Managers | $133,050 | $63.97 | 2,360 | #8 of 49 |
| Chemical Engineers | $131,180 | $63.07 | 780 | #8 of 35 |
| Pharmacists | $129,650 | $62.33 | 5,010 | #50 of 51 |
| Physician Assistants | $129,610 | $62.31 | 1,770 | #33 of 51 |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $128,230 | $61.65 | 2,560 | #46 of 49 |
| Industrial Engineers | $126,960 | $61.04 | 2,000 | #2 of 50 |
| Nurse Practitioners | $125,980 | $60.57 | 4,480 | #34 of 50 |
Where most people work
| Occupation | Employed | Median | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retail Salespersons | 51,540 | $28,820 | $13.86 |
| Cashiers | 50,570 | $23,410 | $11.26 |
| Registered Nurses | 46,790 | $78,880 | $37.92 |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aides | 42,380 | $21,170 | $10.18 |
| Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand | 42,370 | $33,330 | $16.03 |
| General and Operations Managers | 42,020 | $102,060 | $49.07 |
| Food Preparation Workers | 35,130 | $22,900 | $11.01 |
| Office Clerks, General | 34,950 | $30,180 | $14.51 |
| Fast Food and Counter Workers | 34,840 | $23,110 | $11.11 |
| Waiters and Waitresses | 33,170 | $16,880 | $8.11 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024 state estimates. Wage and salary workers only, excluding the self-employed.
Every occupation reported in Louisiana
Grouped by field. Each links to a comparison of that job across all states.
Production 60
- Gas Plant Operators $105,030
- Petroleum Pump System Operators, Refinery Operators, and Gaugers $98,930
- Chemical Plant and System Operators $96,500
- Power Plant Operators $94,500
- Chemical Equipment Operators and Tenders $77,250
- First-Line Supervisors of Production and Operating Workers $76,710
- Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $66,660
- Paper Goods Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $62,690
- Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers $59,860
- Plant and System Operators, All Other $59,720
- Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers $59,060
- Machinists $58,710
- Metal-Refining Furnace Operators and Tenders $57,070
- Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers $50,990
- Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $50,610
- Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators $50,400
- Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers $50,080
- Mixing and Blending Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $49,290
- Fiberglass Laminators and Fabricators $49,090
- Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $48,950
- Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $48,920
- Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic $48,280
- Separating, Filtering, Clarifying, Precipitating, and Still Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $48,050
- Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters $47,570
- Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $47,160
- Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $46,490
- Furnace, Kiln, Oven, Drier, and Kettle Operators and Tenders $46,350
- Stationary Engineers and Boiler Operators $46,170
- Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing $46,040
- Crushing, Grinding, and Polishing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $45,460
- Woodworkers, All Other $45,140
- Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters $43,920
- Miscellaneous Assemblers and Fabricators $43,580
- Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $43,580
- Sawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Wood $43,140
- Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $42,990
- Upholsterers $41,600
- Production Workers, All Other $39,350
- Slaughterers and Meat Packers $38,860
- Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators $38,690
- Molding, Coremaking, and Casting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $37,440
- Helpers--Production Workers $36,910
- Printing Press Operators $36,810
- Dental Laboratory Technicians $36,720
- Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians $36,360
- Electrical, Electronic, and Electromechanical Assemblers, Except Coil Winders, Tapers, and Finishers $35,860
- Textile Knitting and Weaving Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders $35,740
- Food Batchmakers $34,140
- Print Binding and Finishing Workers $34,030
- Butchers and Meat Cutters $32,950
- Grinding and Polishing Workers, Hand $32,120
- Plating Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic $31,540
- Packaging and Filling Machine Operators and Tenders $30,670
- Food Processing Workers, All Other $30,290
- Tailors, Dressmakers, and Custom Sewers $29,910
- Pressers, Textile, Garment, and Related Materials $29,600
- Bakers $28,930
- Sewing Machine Operators $28,670
- Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers $27,270
- Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutters and Trimmers $27,180
Office and administrative support 45
- Postal Service Clerks $61,710
- Production, Planning, and Expediting Clerks $59,950
- Postal Service Mail Carriers $55,930
- First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers $55,480
- Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operators $55,410
- Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks $49,840
- Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants $49,310
- Cargo and Freight Agents $48,800
- Procurement Clerks $47,480
- Dispatchers, Except Police, Fire, and Ambulance $45,460
- Loan Interviewers and Clerks $44,860
- Court, Municipal, and License Clerks $44,120
- Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping $43,930
- Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks $43,650
- Information and Record Clerks, All Other $43,620
- Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks $43,550
- Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs $43,480
- New Accounts Clerks $43,480
- Financial Clerks, All Other $43,180
- Legal Secretaries and Administrative Assistants $42,560
- Weighers, Measurers, Checkers, and Samplers, Recordkeeping $42,490
- Word Processors and Typists $40,390
- Office and Administrative Support Workers, All Other $39,340
- Billing and Posting Clerks $39,110
- Public Safety Telecommunicators $38,830
- Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive $37,800
- Shipping, Receiving, and Inventory Clerks $37,770
- Meter Readers, Utilities $37,190
- Data Entry Keyers $36,630
- Interviewers, Except Eligibility and Loan $36,530
- Bill and Account Collectors $36,460
- Reservation and Transportation Ticket Agents and Travel Clerks $36,070
- Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants $35,930
- Tellers $35,900
- Customer Service Representatives $35,890
- Order Clerks $35,360
- Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service $35,260
- Receptionists and Information Clerks $30,570
- Office Clerks, General $30,180
- File Clerks $30,030
- Couriers and Messengers $29,520
- Gambling Cage Workers $29,390
- Library Assistants, Clerical $28,520
- Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Service $27,300
- Hotel, Motel, and Resort Desk Clerks $27,240
Healthcare practitioners 43
- Nurse Anesthetists $225,440
- General Internal Medicine Physicians $203,740
- Dentists, General $179,600
- Pharmacists $129,650
- Physician Assistants $129,610
- Nurse Practitioners $125,980
- Veterinarians $120,630
- Optometrists $120,080
- Physical Therapists $100,550
- Chiropractors $97,450
- Occupational Therapists $94,030
- Radiation Therapists $93,320
- Healthcare Diagnosing or Treating Practitioners, All Other $84,640
- Nuclear Medicine Technologists $82,540
- Dental Hygienists $80,900
- Registered Nurses $78,880
- Diagnostic Medical Sonographers $76,400
- Audiologists $75,740
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists $71,730
- Dietitians and Nutritionists $70,440
- Respiratory Therapists $70,140
- Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Workers, All Other $66,190
- Speech-Language Pathologists $65,770
- Radiologic Technologists and Technicians $62,760
- Athletic Trainers $62,500
- Therapists, All Other $61,400
- Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians $56,980
- Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars $55,470
- Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses $53,930
- Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians $53,610
- Surgical Technologists $51,930
- Paramedics $50,800
- Recreational Therapists $47,350
- Hearing Aid Specialists $45,850
- Medical Records Specialists $43,820
- Ophthalmic Medical Technicians $39,100
- Pharmacy Technicians $38,700
- Health Technologists and Technicians, All Other $37,630
- Opticians, Dispensing $34,910
- Emergency Medical Technicians $33,990
- Psychiatric Technicians $30,040
- Veterinary Technologists and Technicians $29,920
- Dietetic Technicians $28,740
Education and library 41
- Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary $124,280
- Business Teachers, Postsecondary $101,620
- Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary $82,820
- Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary $81,640
- Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary $80,610
- Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary $80,540
- Education Teachers, Postsecondary $80,500
- Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary $79,480
- Postsecondary Teachers, All Other $79,190
- Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary $77,810
- Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary $75,930
- Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary $72,990
- History Teachers, Postsecondary $72,950
- Communications Teachers, Postsecondary $67,000
- Adult Basic Education, Adult Secondary Education, and English as a Second Language Instructors $63,110
- Instructional Coordinators $62,220
- Career/Technical Education Teachers, Secondary School $59,500
- Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education $59,340
- Librarians and Media Collections Specialists $59,090
- Special Education Teachers, All Other $59,010
- Special Education Teachers, Secondary School $58,180
- English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary $57,850
- Teachers and Instructors, All Other $57,630
- Curators $55,680
- Special Education Teachers, Kindergarten and Elementary School $54,410
- Special Education Teachers, Middle School $54,060
- Career/Technical Education Teachers, Middle School $53,550
- Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education $53,150
- Special Education Teachers, Preschool $52,700
- Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education $52,280
- Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education $51,690
- Educational Instruction and Library Workers, All Other $50,970
- Career/Technical Education Teachers, Postsecondary $49,310
- Self-Enrichment Teachers $39,680
- Library Technicians $37,210
- Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education $36,390
- Museum Technicians and Conservators $34,680
- Tutors $30,100
- Substitute Teachers, Short-Term $28,450
- Teaching Assistants, Except Postsecondary $27,040
- Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary $23,700
Construction and extraction 39
- Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas $84,410
- Boilermakers $76,320
- First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers $72,380
- Construction and Building Inspectors $69,150
- Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Workers $68,220
- Structural Iron and Steel Workers $67,010
- Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters $64,720
- Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas $61,170
- Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas $60,930
- Electricians $59,590
- Sheet Metal Workers $54,870
- Insulation Workers, Mechanical $54,390
- Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas $53,020
- Miscellaneous Construction and Related Workers $52,350
- Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers $51,310
- Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall $50,040
- Carpenters $49,660
- Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators $49,650
- Brickmasons and Blockmasons $47,370
- Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners $46,490
- Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters $45,900
- Roofers $45,680
- Tile and Stone Setters $45,610
- Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators $44,720
- Glaziers $44,520
- Roustabouts, Oil and Gas $44,390
- Painters, Construction and Maintenance $43,700
- Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining $43,670
- Helpers--Extraction Workers $42,830
- Construction Laborers $40,240
- Helpers, Construction Trades, All Other $40,220
- Highway Maintenance Workers $40,020
- Helpers--Painters, Paperhangers, Plasterers, and Stucco Masons $39,430
- Helpers--Electricians $39,050
- Helpers--Carpenters $38,580
- Hazardous Materials Removal Workers $37,280
- Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers $36,780
- Helpers--Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters $36,110
- Fence Erectors $31,480
Installation, maintenance and repair 39
- Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay $79,980
- Avionics Technicians $79,830
- Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers $74,300
- Precision Instrument and Equipment Repairers, All Other $74,260
- First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers $71,970
- Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment $71,700
- Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers $71,200
- Millwrights $67,560
- Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers $66,910
- Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians $65,350
- Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door $64,990
- Industrial Machinery Mechanics $63,830
- Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment $62,990
- Medical Equipment Repairers $60,880
- Maintenance Workers, Machinery $60,740
- Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines $58,360
- Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists $54,750
- Farm Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians $54,690
- Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers $53,510
- Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers, All Other $52,440
- Audiovisual Equipment Installers and Repairers $51,670
- Rail Car Repairers $50,250
- Automotive Body and Related Repairers $49,450
- Coin, Vending, and Amusement Machine Servicers and Repairers $48,430
- Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians $47,820
- Telecommunications Line Installers and Repairers $46,920
- Computer, Automated Teller, and Office Machine Repairers $46,350
- Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers $46,110
- Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics $46,020
- Outdoor Power Equipment and Other Small Engine Mechanics $42,230
- Maintenance and Repair Workers, General $41,660
- Locksmiths and Safe Repairers $40,390
- Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians $39,520
- Home Appliance Repairers $38,950
- Riggers $38,370
- Mechanical Door Repairers $38,300
- Helpers--Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers $36,130
- Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers $34,710
- Tire Repairers and Changers $34,640
Transport and material moving 32
- Commercial Pilots $120,710
- Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels $103,430
- Air Traffic Controllers $99,670
- Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers $94,720
- Ship Engineers $94,580
- Transportation Inspectors $79,280
- Wellhead Pumpers $75,690
- Tank Car, Truck, and Ship Loaders $62,300
- Crane and Tower Operators $61,130
- Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumpers $60,840
- First-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors $60,130
- Machine Feeders and Offbearers $50,510
- Material Moving Workers, All Other $50,430
- Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers $48,770
- Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity $48,000
- Conveyor Operators and Tenders $47,840
- Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators $47,200
- Sailors and Marine Oilers $44,380
- Driver/Sales Workers $41,950
- Aircraft Service Attendants $40,230
- Light Truck Drivers $38,020
- Refuse and Recyclable Material Collectors $36,890
- Transportation Workers, All Other $34,040
- Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand $33,330
- Shuttle Drivers and Chauffeurs $33,040
- Stockers and Order Fillers $32,560
- Bus Drivers, School $32,030
- Motor Vehicle Operators, All Other $30,820
- Automotive and Watercraft Service Attendants $28,700
- Cleaners of Vehicles and Equipment $27,940
- Packers and Packagers, Hand $27,900
- Parking Attendants $23,280
Management 31
- Architectural and Engineering Managers $167,840
- Industrial Production Managers $133,050
- Computer and Information Systems Managers $128,230
- Chief Executives $121,490
- Financial Managers $119,360
- Purchasing Managers $105,980
- Construction Managers $104,510
- Human Resources Managers $104,430
- Marketing Managers $103,080
- Sales Managers $102,710
- General and Operations Managers $102,060
- Education Administrators, Postsecondary $101,660
- Medical and Health Services Managers $101,080
- Managers, All Other $100,890
- Training and Development Managers $100,650
- Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers $97,630
- Public Relations Managers $96,920
- Emergency Management Directors $93,970
- Postmasters and Mail Superintendents $92,870
- Compensation and Benefits Managers $92,710
- Facilities Managers $92,030
- Administrative Services Managers $91,730
- Gambling Managers $83,750
- Education Administrators, Kindergarten through Secondary $83,730
- Education Administrators, All Other $80,060
- Social and Community Service Managers $78,950
- Funeral Home Managers $78,220
- Food Service Managers $62,170
- Lodging Managers $60,150
- Property, Real Estate, and Community Association Managers $52,000
- Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool and Daycare $40,220
Arts, design, entertainment and media 30
- Commercial and Industrial Designers $79,060
- Media and Communication Equipment Workers, All Other $76,620
- Writers and Authors $70,810
- Art Directors $66,030
- Producers and Directors $64,370
- Designers, All Other $64,040
- Court Reporters and Simultaneous Captioners $61,960
- Public Relations Specialists $61,150
- Technical Writers $59,250
- Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film $58,860
- Interior Designers $57,150
- News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists $56,040
- Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials $52,320
- Coaches and Scouts $52,260
- Sound Engineering Technicians $52,240
- Photographers $49,740
- Editors $48,880
- Media and Communication Workers, All Other $48,480
- Broadcast Technicians $47,700
- Graphic Designers $46,300
- Interpreters and Translators $45,060
- Audio and Video Technicians $40,240
- Merchandise Displayers and Window Trimmers $33,320
- Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators $32,390
- Floral Designers $29,930
- Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys $27,620
- Actors not reported
- Musicians and Singers not reported
- Disc Jockeys, Except Radio not reported
- Entertainers and Performers, Sports and Related Workers, All Other not reported
Business and financial 28
- Management Analysts $98,680
- Financial Examiners $83,180
- Project Management Specialists $82,400
- Personal Financial Advisors $78,150
- Budget Analysts $77,380
- Credit Analysts $75,820
- Labor Relations Specialists $75,280
- Logisticians $74,230
- Accountants and Auditors $69,540
- Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators $69,370
- Cost Estimators $68,500
- Buyers and Purchasing Agents $64,170
- Compliance Officers $63,730
- Insurance Underwriters $63,480
- Property Appraisers and Assessors $62,710
- Business Operations Specialists, All Other $62,300
- Human Resources Specialists $61,020
- Financial and Investment Analysts $60,870
- Loan Officers $57,320
- Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists $57,300
- Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists $57,270
- Training and Development Specialists $57,020
- Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners $55,100
- Financial Risk Specialists $55,050
- Financial Specialists, All Other $53,360
- Fundraisers $47,820
- Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents $47,790
- Tax Preparers $37,430
Personal care and service 26
- First-Line Supervisors of Gambling Services Workers $53,140
- First-Line Supervisors of Entertainment and Recreation Workers, Except Gambling Services $43,900
- Skincare Specialists $41,340
- First-Line Supervisors of Personal Service Workers $39,520
- Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers $38,890
- Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors $33,520
- Entertainment Attendants and Related Workers, All Other $32,520
- Gambling Dealers $31,830
- Animal Trainers $31,520
- Personal Care and Service Workers, All Other $31,510
- Residential Advisors $30,850
- Concierges $30,510
- Locker Room, Coatroom, and Dressing Room Attendants $30,010
- Tour and Travel Guides $29,970
- Funeral Attendants $29,730
- Manicurists and Pedicurists $29,100
- Gambling Service Workers, All Other $28,180
- Shampooers $28,130
- Animal Caretakers $27,630
- Recreation Workers $26,530
- Baggage Porters and Bellhops $25,320
- Gambling and Sports Book Writers and Runners $25,210
- Ushers, Lobby Attendants, and Ticket Takers $24,800
- Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists $23,470
- Amusement and Recreation Attendants $22,620
- Childcare Workers $22,100
Architecture and engineering 24
- Petroleum Engineers $134,630
- Chemical Engineers $131,180
- Industrial Engineers $126,960
- Environmental Engineers $123,210
- Mechanical Engineers $114,050
- Health and Safety Engineers, Except Mining Safety Engineers and Inspectors $111,190
- Electrical Engineers $108,620
- Civil Engineers $102,350
- Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians $100,430
- Electronics Engineers, Except Computer $95,970
- Engineers, All Other $95,550
- Computer Hardware Engineers $93,570
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians $81,350
- Architects, Except Landscape and Naval $77,270
- Mechanical Drafters $75,230
- Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians $74,580
- Architectural and Civil Drafters $72,580
- Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other $65,740
- Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians $63,050
- Surveyors $60,020
- Drafters, All Other $58,400
- Electrical and Electronics Drafters $55,240
- Surveying and Mapping Technicians $47,580
- Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians $42,820
Life, physical and social science 22
- Psychologists, All Other $113,620
- Chemists $109,150
- Chemical Technicians $83,480
- Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other $80,490
- Occupational Health and Safety Specialists $80,440
- Foresters $79,580
- Physical Scientists, All Other $74,990
- Life Scientists, All Other $73,870
- Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers $72,340
- Biological Scientists, All Other $69,950
- Clinical and Counseling Psychologists $67,470
- Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health $67,260
- School Psychologists $65,290
- Urban and Regional Planners $64,800
- Epidemiologists $59,810
- Forest and Conservation Technicians $58,820
- Conservation Scientists $58,480
- Biological Technicians $53,620
- Social Science Research Assistants $52,770
- Occupational Health and Safety Technicians $52,020
- Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other $48,240
- Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health $48,000
Protective service 18
- First-Line Supervisors of Protective Service Workers, All Other $72,550
- First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives $69,790
- First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Workers $60,460
- Transportation Security Screeners $59,950
- Detectives and Criminal Investigators $59,500
- First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers $59,290
- First-Line Supervisors of Security Workers $53,510
- Fish and Game Wardens $51,370
- Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers $50,580
- Private Detectives and Investigators $43,390
- Correctional Officers and Jailers $41,820
- Protective Service Workers, All Other $40,810
- Gambling Surveillance Officers and Gambling Investigators $33,960
- Firefighters $33,700
- Security Guards $31,660
- School Bus Monitors $28,330
- Crossing Guards and Flaggers $22,980
- Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers $22,110
Sales 18
- Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Technical and Scientific Products $106,860
- First-Line Supervisors of Non-Retail Sales Workers $72,310
- Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products $63,080
- Insurance Sales Agents $55,590
- Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents $51,150
- Sales Representatives of Services, Except Advertising, Insurance, Financial Services, and Travel $48,120
- Advertising Sales Agents $46,690
- Travel Agents $45,720
- First-Line Supervisors of Retail Sales Workers $42,700
- Real Estate Sales Agents $39,840
- Demonstrators and Product Promoters $35,160
- Counter and Rental Clerks $31,050
- Sales and Related Workers, All Other $30,480
- Parts Salespersons $29,590
- Retail Salespersons $28,820
- Gambling Change Persons and Booth Cashiers $27,270
- Cashiers $23,410
- Telemarketers $23,260
Healthcare support 17
- Occupational Therapy Assistants $65,860
- Physical Therapist Assistants $61,340
- Massage Therapists $58,010
- Dental Assistants $38,150
- Medical Transcriptionists $36,920
- Medical Equipment Preparers $36,320
- Medical Assistants $35,870
- Phlebotomists $35,650
- Healthcare Support Workers, All Other $33,030
- Pharmacy Aides $30,940
- Nursing Assistants $30,240
- Occupational Therapy Aides $30,040
- Psychiatric Aides $29,340
- Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers $29,280
- Orderlies $26,350
- Physical Therapist Aides $21,600
- Home Health and Personal Care Aides $21,170
Computing and mathematics 16
- Computer and Information Research Scientists $111,880
- Computer Network Architects $103,880
- Software Developers $102,290
- Computer Systems Analysts $89,800
- Information Security Analysts $88,200
- Database Administrators $86,420
- Network and Computer Systems Administrators $86,060
- Computer Programmers $83,980
- Computer Occupations, All Other $75,560
- Web Developers $74,500
- Data Scientists $70,530
- Operations Research Analysts $64,240
- Web and Digital Interface Designers $62,700
- Computer Network Support Specialists $56,470
- Computer User Support Specialists $53,350
- Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers $50,110
Food preparation and serving 16
- Chefs and Head Cooks $38,340
- First-Line Supervisors of Food Preparation and Serving Workers $35,640
- Cooks, All Other $29,630
- Cooks, Restaurant $28,880
- Dining Room and Cafeteria Attendants and Bartender Helpers $27,260
- Cooks, Short Order $27,050
- Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria $26,410
- Food Servers, Nonrestaurant $25,550
- Dishwashers $23,250
- Fast Food and Counter Workers $23,110
- Food Preparation Workers $22,900
- Cooks, Fast Food $21,940
- Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other $21,550
- Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop $20,650
- Bartenders $19,620
- Waiters and Waitresses $16,880
Community and social service 13
- Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors $67,070
- Social Workers, All Other $64,720
- Healthcare Social Workers $64,380
- Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists $59,010
- Child, Family, and School Social Workers $57,880
- Clergy $57,370
- Health Education Specialists $57,150
- Rehabilitation Counselors $46,610
- Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other $46,120
- Counselors, All Other $46,000
- Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers $44,050
- Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors $40,200
- Social and Human Service Assistants $33,520
Building and grounds maintenance 10
- First-Line Supervisors of Landscaping, Lawn Service, and Groundskeeping Workers $53,000
- Pest Control Workers $41,600
- Pesticide Handlers, Sprayers, and Applicators, Vegetation $41,320
- Tree Trimmers and Pruners $38,950
- First-Line Supervisors of Housekeeping and Janitorial Workers $38,200
- Building Cleaning Workers, All Other $34,560
- Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers $32,540
- Grounds Maintenance Workers, All Other $30,690
- Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners $27,940
- Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners $25,380
Farming, fishing and forestry 8
- Agricultural Inspectors $60,170
- First-Line Supervisors of Farming, Fishing, and Forestry Workers $59,020
- Logging Equipment Operators $56,780
- Log Graders and Scalers $47,140
- Forest and Conservation Workers $40,830
- Agricultural Workers, All Other $39,990
- Graders and Sorters, Agricultural Products $36,190
- Farmworkers and Laborers, Crop, Nursery, and Greenhouse $30,170
Legal 7
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary in Louisiana?
The median across all occupations is $43,770 a year, or $21.05 an hour, covering 1,911,530 wage and salary workers. Median rather than mean, because a handful of very high earners pull an average upward and describe nobody.
Which jobs pay the most in Louisiana?
Nurse Anesthetists ($225,440), General Internal Medicine Physicians ($203,740), Dentists, General ($179,600) lead the table. Medical specialities dominate the top of almost every state list, which says more about how the occupation is classified than about local conditions.
What does Louisiana employ the most people in?
Retail Salespersons, with 51,540 employed at a median of $28,820. The largest occupations in any state are usually retail, food service, transport and administrative roles.
Does a higher salary here mean more money in practice?
Not necessarily. Wages and living costs move together. Louisiana electricity averages 14.15¢ per kilowatt-hour against a national 16.44¢ in Texas as one comparison, and housing costs vary far more than that. Read a salary figure alongside what it costs to live where it is earned.