Actuary Salary in Iowa
The median actuary salary in Iowa is $101,451 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $113,990.
Actuary Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for actuary compensation. Actuary salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $101,451 per year, actuarys in Iowa earn $12,539 less than the national median of $113,990.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $101,451 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $113,990 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: actuarys at the 10th percentile earn $60,876, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $174,449 — a $113,573 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Iowa for this role is Iowa City, where the median reaches $108,291.
Nationally, actuary employment is projected to grow 21% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Iowa and beyond.
Actuary Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level actuary earns around $62,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $155,750 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Iowa
| Percentile | IA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $60,876 |
| 25th Percentile | $77,608 |
| Median (50th) | $101,451 |
| 75th Percentile | $134,390 |
| 90th Percentile | $174,449 |
Actuary Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for actuarys in Iowa include Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, and Sioux City. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Actuary in Iowa
Education
Most actuary positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, actuary employment is projected to grow 21% over the next decade (much faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Actuarys who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $54,299 over your career trajectory.
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