Science & Research Iowa (IA) Rank #39 of 50

Epidemiologist Salary in Iowa

The median epidemiologist salary in Iowa is $69,883 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $78,520.

Median Salary
$69,883
vs National
$-8,637
State Rank
#39 of 50
Cost of Living
89%

Epidemiologist Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)

Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for epidemiologist compensation. Epidemiologist salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $69,883 per year, epidemiologists in Iowa earn $8,637 less than the national median of $78,520.

A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $69,883 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $78,520 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Iowa is significant: epidemiologists at the 10th percentile earn $44,500, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $112,140 — a $67,640 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 $74,594.

Nationally, epidemiologist employment is projected to grow 27% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Iowa and beyond.

Epidemiologist Salary in Iowa by Experience

In Iowa, an entry-level epidemiologist earns around $46,280, while experienced professionals earn up to $106,800 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$46,280
$-5,720 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$71,200
$-8,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$106,800
$-13,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Iowa

Percentile IA Salary
10th Percentile $44,500
25th Percentile $55,180
Median (50th) $69,883
75th Percentile $89,890
90th Percentile $112,140

Epidemiologist Salary by City in Iowa

The largest employment areas for epidemiologists 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 Epidemiologist in Iowa

Education

Most epidemiologist positions require a master's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

EpidemiologyBiostatisticsSAS/RDisease SurveillanceResearch MethodsPublic Health

Job Outlook in Iowa

Nationally, epidemiologist employment is projected to grow 27% over the next decade (much faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Data shows Epidemiologists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $36,917 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Epidemiologist Salary in Iowa

How much does a Epidemiologist make in Iowa? ▼
The median epidemiologist salary in Iowa is $69,883 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $78,520. Salaries range from $44,500 (10th percentile) to $112,140 (90th percentile).
How much does a Epidemiologist make per hour in Iowa? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $69,883, a epidemiologist in Iowa earns approximately $34 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Iowa a good state for epidemiologists? ▼
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for epidemiologist pay. The cost of living index is 89% of the national average. Entry-level epidemiologists earn $46,280, while senior professionals earn $106,800.
How does Iowa compare to other states for epidemiologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for epidemiologists is Hawaii at $133,484. Iowa's median of $69,883 ranks #39 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include North Dakota ($70,668) and Ohio ($70,668).
What is the entry-level epidemiologist salary in Iowa? ▼
An entry-level epidemiologist in Iowa earns approximately $46,280 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $71,200. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $106,800.
What city in Iowa pays epidemiologists the most? ▼
Iowa City is the highest paying city in Iowa for epidemiologists, with a median salary of $74,594. Other cities include Des Moines and Cedar Rapids.