Building Inspector Salary in Iowa
The median building inspector salary in Iowa is $56,693 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $63,700.
Building Inspector Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for building inspector compensation. Building Inspector salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $56,693 per year, building inspectors in Iowa earn $7,007 less than the national median of $63,700.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $56,693 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $63,700 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: building inspectors at the 10th percentile earn $35,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $90,780 — a $55,180 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 $60,515.
Nationally, building inspector employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for building inspectors across the country.
Building Inspector Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level building inspector earns around $37,380, while experienced professionals earn up to $84,550 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 | $35,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,500 |
| Median (50th) | $56,693 |
| 75th Percentile | $72,980 |
| 90th Percentile | $90,780 |
Building Inspector Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for building inspectors 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 Building Inspector in Iowa
Education
Most building inspector positions require a high school diploma. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, building inspector employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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