Crane Operator Salary in Sioux City, Iowa
The median crane operator salary in Sioux City, IA is $54,054 per year, which is 16% below the national median and 5.6% below the Iowa state average.
Crane Operator Pay in Sioux City: What to Expect (2026)
Sioux City offers a median crane operator salary of $54,054, which is $3,218 below the Iowa state average of $57,272. Compared to the national median of $64,350, Sioux City pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Sioux City's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 84% of the national average. This means the $54,054 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $64,350 in an average-cost city. This makes Sioux City an attractive option for crane operators seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for crane operators in Sioux City spans from $33,600 at the 10th percentile to $84,000 at the 90th percentile — a $50,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $35,280, while senior crane operators with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $79,800. Sioux City is a smaller market (pop. 85,797), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Crane Operator Salary in Sioux City by Experience
In Sioux City, an entry-level crane operator earns around $35,280, while experienced professionals earn up to $79,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 84% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Sioux City, IA
| Percentile | Sioux City |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,000 |
| Median (50th) | $54,054 |
| 75th Percentile | $68,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $84,000 |
Crane Operator Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a Crane Operator in Sioux City
Education
Most crane operator positions require a high school diploma. Sioux City and the surrounding Iowa area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, crane operator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Sioux City may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Crane Operator Jobs in Sioux City
Browse open crane operator positions in Sioux City, IA: