Civil Engineer Salary in Iowa
The median civil engineer salary in Iowa is $80,047 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $89,940.
Civil Engineer Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for civil engineer compensation. Civil Engineer salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $80,047 per year, civil engineers in Iowa earn $9,893 less than the national median of $89,940.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $80,047 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $89,940 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: civil engineers at the 10th percentile earn $53,756, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $123,354 — a $69,598 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 $85,443.
Nationally, civil engineer employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for civil engineers across the country.
Civil Engineer Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level civil engineer earns around $55,180, while experienced professionals earn up to $115,700 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 | $53,756 |
| 25th Percentile | $65,148 |
| Median (50th) | $80,047 |
| 75th Percentile | $101,460 |
| 90th Percentile | $123,354 |
Civil Engineer Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for civil 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 Civil Engineer in Iowa
Education
Most civil engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, civil engineer employment is projected to grow 5% 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 Civil Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $35,653 over your career trajectory.
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