Athletic Trainer Salary in Iowa
The median athletic trainer salary in Iowa is $47,918 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $53,840.
Athletic Trainer Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for athletic trainer compensation. Athletic Trainer salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $47,918 per year, athletic trainers in Iowa earn $5,922 less than the national median of $53,840.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $47,918 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $53,840 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: athletic trainers at the 10th percentile earn $30,260, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $72,980 — a $42,720 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 $51,148.
Nationally, athletic trainer employment is projected to grow 17% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Iowa and beyond.
Athletic Trainer Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level athletic trainer earns around $32,040, while experienced professionals earn up to $69,420 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 | $30,260 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,380 |
| Median (50th) | $47,918 |
| 75th Percentile | $60,520 |
| 90th Percentile | $72,980 |
Athletic Trainer Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for athletic trainers 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 Athletic Trainer in Iowa
Education
Most athletic trainer positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, athletic trainer employment is projected to grow 17% over the next decade (much faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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