Editor Salary in Iowa
The median editor salary in Iowa is $65,041 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $73,080.
Editor Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for editor compensation. Editor salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $65,041 per year, editors in Iowa earn $8,039 less than the national median of $73,080.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $65,041 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $73,080 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: editors at the 10th percentile earn $35,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $117,480 — a $81,880 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 $69,426.
Nationally, editor employment is projected to grow -5% over the next decade (decline). Despite slower growth nationally, experienced editors with in-demand specializations continue to command strong salaries.
Editor Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level editor earns around $37,380, while experienced professionals earn up to $111,250 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 | $35,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $47,170 |
| Median (50th) | $65,041 |
| 75th Percentile | $87,220 |
| 90th Percentile | $117,480 |
Editor Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for editors 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 Editor in Iowa
Education
Most editor positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, editor employment is projected to grow -5% over the next decade (decline). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Editors who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $46,209 over your career trajectory.
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