Hotel Manager Salary in Iowa
The median hotel manager salary in Iowa is $54,290 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $61,000.
Hotel Manager Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for hotel manager compensation. Hotel Manager salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $54,290 per year, hotel managers in Iowa earn $6,710 less than the national median of $61,000.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $54,290 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $61,000 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: hotel managers at the 10th percentile earn $31,150, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $99,680 — a $68,530 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 $57,950.
Nationally, hotel manager employment is projected to grow 10% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for hotel managers across the country.
Hotel Manager Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level hotel manager earns around $33,820, while experienced professionals earn up to $93,450 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Iowa
| Percentile | IA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,150 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,050 |
| Median (50th) | $54,290 |
| 75th Percentile | $75,650 |
| 90th Percentile | $99,680 |
Hotel Manager Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for hotel managers 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 Hotel Manager in Iowa
Education
Most hotel manager positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, hotel manager employment is projected to grow 10% over the next decade (faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Hotel Managers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $39,160 over your career trajectory.
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