Human Resources Manager Salary in Iowa
The median human resources manager salary in Iowa is $115,700 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $130,000.
Human Resources Manager Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for human resources manager compensation. Human Resources Manager salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $115,700 per year, human resources managers in Iowa earn $14,300 less than the national median of $130,000.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $115,700 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $130,000 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: human resources managers at the 10th percentile earn $69,598, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $185,120 — a $115,522 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 $123,500.
Nationally, human resources manager employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for human resources managers across the country.
Human Resources Manager Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level human resources manager earns around $57,850, while experienced professionals earn up to $146,850 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Iowa
| Percentile | IA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $69,598 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,890 |
| Median (50th) | $115,700 |
| 75th Percentile | $148,630 |
| 90th Percentile | $185,120 |
Human Resources Manager Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for human resources 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 Human Resources Manager in Iowa
Education
Most human resources manager positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, human resources manager employment is projected to grow 5% 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 Human Resources Managers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $31,150 over your career trajectory.
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