Archivist Salary in Iowa
The median archivist salary in Iowa is $52,190 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $58,640.
Archivist Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for archivist compensation. Archivist salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $52,190 per year, archivists in Iowa earn $6,450 less than the national median of $58,640.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $52,190 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $58,640 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: archivists at the 10th percentile earn $32,040, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $83,660 — a $51,620 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 $55,708.
Nationally, archivist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for archivists across the country.
Archivist Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level archivist earns around $33,820, while experienced professionals earn up to $78,320 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Iowa
| Percentile | IA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,040 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,940 |
| Median (50th) | $52,190 |
| 75th Percentile | $67,640 |
| 90th Percentile | $83,660 |
Archivist Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for archivists 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 Archivist in Iowa
Education
Most archivist positions require a master's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, archivist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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