Chemical Engineer Salary in Iowa
The median chemical engineer salary in Iowa is $94,571 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $106,260.
Chemical Engineer Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for chemical engineer compensation. Chemical Engineer salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $94,571 per year, chemical engineers in Iowa earn $11,689 less than the national median of $106,260.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $94,571 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $106,260 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: chemical engineers at the 10th percentile earn $60,520, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $153,080 — a $92,560 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 $100,947.
Nationally, chemical engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for chemical engineers across the country.
Chemical Engineer Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level chemical engineer earns around $62,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $144,180 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Iowa
| Percentile | IA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $60,520 |
| 25th Percentile | $74,760 |
| Median (50th) | $94,571 |
| 75th Percentile | $122,820 |
| 90th Percentile | $153,080 |
Chemical Engineer Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for chemical engineers 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 Chemical Engineer in Iowa
Education
Most chemical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, chemical engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Chemical Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $49,609 over your career trajectory.
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