Watertown vs Yankton: Athletic Trainer Salary (2026)
Compare athletic trainer salaries between Watertown, SD and Yankton, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Watertown, SD | Yankton, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $58,371▲ | $58,352 |
| Hourly Rate | $28.06▲ | $28.05 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $47,873▲ | $47,826 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,652▲ | $52,612 |
| 75th Percentile | $68,112▲ | $66,829 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $78,393▲ | $76,332 |
| Total Employed | 6▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Watertown, SD offers better overall compensation for athletic trainers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Yankton.
The salary gap between Watertown and Yankton is $19 (0.03%). Watertown's median is -10.77% compared to the US national median of $65,415.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Watertown spans $30,520,Yankton spans $28,506. Watertown has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Watertown ($62,900 effective) pays 0.03% more than Yankton ($62,879 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Watertown if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($58,371/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($78,393)
- ✓Larger job market (6 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $62,900)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Yankton if…
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, athletic trainer salaries in Watertown grew 25.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 25.0% growth in Yankton over the same period.
Watertown, SD
$44,616 (2024) → $55,788 (2025)
Yankton, SD
$44,602 (2024) → $55,770 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Watertown, SD
Yankton, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays athletic trainers more: Watertown or Yankton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Watertown and Yankton?
Should I relocate from Watertown to Yankton as a athletic trainer?
What do entry-level athletic trainers earn in Watertown vs Yankton?
Written by Jordan Lee, MS, ATC
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in athletic training. She specializes in injury prevention and rehabilitation. She has worked at several high schools and collegiate athletic programs.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.63% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, MS, ATC, a licensed athletic trainer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov