Esthetician Salary in Iowa
The median esthetician salary in Iowa is $33,998 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $38,200.
Esthetician Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for esthetician compensation. Esthetician salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $33,998 per year, estheticians in Iowa earn $4,202 less than the national median of $38,200.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $33,998 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $38,200 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: estheticians at the 10th percentile earn $21,360, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $57,850 — a $36,490 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 $36,290.
Nationally, esthetician employment is projected to grow 17% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Iowa and beyond.
Esthetician Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level esthetician earns around $23,140, while experienced professionals earn up to $55,180 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
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Earning $33,998? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Iowa
| Percentile | IA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $21,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $26,700 |
| Median (50th) | $33,998 |
| 75th Percentile | $46,280 |
| 90th Percentile | $57,850 |
Esthetician Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for estheticians 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 Esthetician in Iowa
Education
Most esthetician positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, esthetician employment is projected to grow 17% over the next decade (much faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
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