Agriculture & Environment Iowa (IA) Rank #39 of 50

Fish and Game Warden Salary in Iowa

The median fish and game warden salary in Iowa is $46,992 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $52,800.

Median Salary
$46,992
vs National
$-5,808
State Rank
#39 of 50
Cost of Living
89%

Fish and Game Warden Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)

Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for fish and game warden compensation. Fish and Game Warden salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $46,992 per year, fish and game wardens in Iowa earn $5,808 less than the national median of $52,800.

A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $46,992 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $52,800 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Iowa is significant: fish and game wardens at the 10th percentile earn $30,260, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $72,980 — a $42,720 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 $50,160.

Nationally, fish and game warden employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for fish and game wardens across the country.

Fish and Game Warden Salary in Iowa by Experience

In Iowa, an entry-level fish and game warden earns around $32,040, while experienced professionals earn up to $69,420 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$32,040
$-3,960 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$48,060
$-5,940 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$69,420
$-8,580 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Iowa

Percentile IA Salary
10th Percentile $30,260
25th Percentile $37,380
Median (50th) $46,992
75th Percentile $60,520
90th Percentile $72,980

Fish and Game Warden Salary by City in Iowa

The largest employment areas for fish and game wardens 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 Fish and Game Warden in Iowa

Education

Most fish and game warden positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Wildlife LawConservationLaw EnforcementFirearmsBoating SafetyCommunication

Job Outlook in Iowa

Nationally, fish and game warden employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Fish and Game Warden Salary in Iowa

How much does a Fish and Game Warden make in Iowa? ▼
The median fish and game warden salary in Iowa is $46,992 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $52,800. Salaries range from $30,260 (10th percentile) to $72,980 (90th percentile).
How much does a Fish and Game Warden make per hour in Iowa? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $46,992, a fish and game warden in Iowa earns approximately $23 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Iowa a good state for fish and game wardens? ▼
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for fish and game warden pay. The cost of living index is 89% of the national average. Entry-level fish and game wardens earn $32,040, while senior professionals earn $69,420.
How does Iowa compare to other states for fish and game warden salary? ▼
The highest paying state for fish and game wardens is Hawaii at $89,760. Iowa's median of $46,992 ranks #39 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include North Dakota ($47,520) and Ohio ($47,520).
What is the entry-level fish and game warden salary in Iowa? ▼
An entry-level fish and game warden in Iowa earns approximately $32,040 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $48,060. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $69,420.
What city in Iowa pays fish and game wardens the most? ▼
Iowa City is the highest paying city in Iowa for fish and game wardens, with a median salary of $50,160. Other cities include Des Moines and Cedar Rapids.