Forester Salary in Iowa
The median forester salary in Iowa is $56,773 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $63,790.
Forester Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for forester compensation. Forester salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $56,773 per year, foresters in Iowa earn $7,017 less than the national median of $63,790.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $56,773 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $63,790 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: foresters at the 10th percentile earn $37,380, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $90,780 — a $53,400 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 $60,601.
Nationally, forester employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for foresters across the country.
Forester Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level forester earns around $39,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $84,550 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
Save More on Student Loans
Earning $56,773? 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 | $37,380 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,390 |
| Median (50th) | $56,773 |
| 75th Percentile | $72,980 |
| 90th Percentile | $90,780 |
Forester Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for foresters 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 Forester in Iowa
Education
Most forester positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, forester employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 12,000 other Foresters.
Get a Professional Resume →Open to Forester Roles in Iowa?
Get matched with recruiters hiring foresters in Iowa at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: