Chef Salary in Iowa
The median chef salary in Iowa is $50,303 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $56,520.
Chef Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for chef compensation. Chef salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $50,303 per year, chefs in Iowa earn $6,217 less than the national median of $56,520.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $50,303 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $56,520 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: chefs at the 10th percentile earn $29,548, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $87,042 — a $57,494 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 $53,694.
Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for chefs across the country.
Chef Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level chef earns around $31,150, 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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Earning $50,303? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Iowa
| Percentile | IA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,548 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,558 |
| Median (50th) | $50,303 |
| 75th Percentile | $66,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $87,042 |
Chef Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for chefs 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 Chef in Iowa
Education
Most chef positions require a high school diploma. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, chef employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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