Salaries in Iowa.
2 metro areas. 3445 roles.
Average cost-of-living index: 0.86x national average. Last updated April 2026.
Highest Paying
$313,000
Principal AI Research Scientist
Median Role
$274,000
Principal Quantitative Developer
Entry Level
$264,000
SVP of Data
Salary data sourced from SEC filings, H-1B Labor Condition Applications (DOL), Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, and aggregated job postings across 50+ platforms. Ranges reflect 25th to 75th percentile for full-time positions. Cost-of-living adjustments use Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (2025 index). Last updated April 2026.
Iowa has 2 major metro areas tracked in our salary database, with an average cost-of-living index of 0.86x the national average. The highest-paying role across the state is Principal AI Research Scientist at $313,000 in Des Moines. The median role pays $274,000.
Metro areas in Iowa
Top 30 salaries in Iowa
Tax considerations in Iowa
Iowa has a flat 3.8% state income tax. Des Moines has no city income tax. The low tax rate and affordable housing create strong purchasing power.
Iowa has a flat 3.8% state income tax. Des Moines has no city income tax. The low rate and affordable housing create strong purchasing power.
Other states
Know the number. Get the offer.
Orbyt gives you the salary data, interview prep, and pipeline tools to negotiate from a position of strength.
Start free.