Data Engineer Salary in Iowa
The median data engineer salary in Iowa is $107,500 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $125,000.
Data Engineer Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #40 out of 50 states for data engineer compensation. Data Engineer salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $107,500 per year, data engineers in Iowa earn $17,500 less than the national median of $125,000.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $107,500 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $120,787 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: data engineers at the 10th percentile earn $67,080, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $163,400 — a $96,320 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 $115,000.
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Iowa and beyond.
Data Engineer Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level data engineer earns around $68,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $154,800 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Iowa
| Percentile | IA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $67,080 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,000 |
| Median (50th) | $107,500 |
| 75th Percentile | $135,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $163,400 |
Data Engineer Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for data 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 Data Engineer in Iowa
Education
Most data engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Data Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $47,300 over your career trajectory.
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