Carpenter Salary in Iowa
The median carpenter salary in Iowa is $45,737 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $51,390.
Carpenter Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for carpenter compensation. Carpenter salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $45,737 per year, carpenters in Iowa earn $5,653 less than the national median of $51,390.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $45,737 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $51,390 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: carpenters at the 10th percentile earn $30,616, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $73,158 — a $42,542 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 $48,821.
Nationally, carpenter employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for carpenters across the country.
Carpenter Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level carpenter earns around $28,480, 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 | $30,616 |
| 25th Percentile | $36,846 |
| Median (50th) | $45,737 |
| 75th Percentile | $57,850 |
| 90th Percentile | $73,158 |
Carpenter Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for carpenters 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 Carpenter in Iowa
Education
Most carpenter positions require a high school diploma. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, carpenter employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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