Automotive & Maintenance Iowa (IA) Rank #39 of 50

Aircraft Mechanic Salary in Iowa

The median aircraft mechanic salary in Iowa is $58,340 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $65,550.

Median Salary
$58,340
vs National
$-7,210
State Rank
#39 of 50
Cost of Living
89%

Aircraft Mechanic Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)

Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for aircraft mechanic compensation. Aircraft Mechanic salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $58,340 per year, aircraft mechanics in Iowa earn $7,210 less than the national median of $65,550.

A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $58,340 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $65,551 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Iowa is significant: aircraft mechanics at the 10th percentile earn $37,380, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $89,890 — a $52,510 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 $62,273.

Nationally, aircraft mechanic employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for aircraft mechanics across the country.

Aircraft Mechanic Salary in Iowa by Experience

In Iowa, an entry-level aircraft mechanic earns around $39,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $85,440 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$39,160
$-4,840 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$59,630
$-7,370 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$85,440
$-10,560 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Iowa

Percentile IA Salary
10th Percentile $37,380
25th Percentile $46,280
Median (50th) $58,340
75th Percentile $74,760
90th Percentile $89,890

Aircraft Mechanic Salary by City in Iowa

The largest employment areas for aircraft mechanics 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 Aircraft Mechanic in Iowa

Education

Most aircraft mechanic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Aircraft SystemsA&P CertificationFAA RegulationsAvionicsTroubleshootingSafety Protocols

Job Outlook in Iowa

Nationally, aircraft mechanic employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Aircraft Mechanic Salary in Iowa

How much does a Aircraft Mechanic make in Iowa? ▼
The median aircraft mechanic salary in Iowa is $58,340 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $65,550. Salaries range from $37,380 (10th percentile) to $89,890 (90th percentile).
How much does a Aircraft Mechanic make per hour in Iowa? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $58,340, a aircraft mechanic in Iowa earns approximately $28 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Iowa a good state for aircraft mechanics? ▼
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for aircraft mechanic pay. The cost of living index is 89% of the national average. Entry-level aircraft mechanics earn $39,160, while senior professionals earn $85,440.
How does Iowa compare to other states for aircraft mechanic salary? ▼
The highest paying state for aircraft mechanics is Hawaii at $111,435. Iowa's median of $58,340 ranks #39 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include North Dakota ($58,995) and Ohio ($58,995).
What is the entry-level aircraft mechanic salary in Iowa? ▼
An entry-level aircraft mechanic in Iowa earns approximately $39,160 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $59,630. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $85,440.
What city in Iowa pays aircraft mechanics the most? ▼
Iowa City is the highest paying city in Iowa for aircraft mechanics, with a median salary of $62,273. Other cities include Des Moines and Cedar Rapids.