Insurance Underwriter Salary in Iowa
The median insurance underwriter salary in Iowa is $69,295 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $77,860.
Insurance Underwriter Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for insurance underwriter compensation. Insurance Underwriter salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $69,295 per year, insurance underwriters in Iowa earn $8,565 less than the national median of $77,860.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $69,295 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $77,860 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: insurance underwriters at the 10th percentile earn $43,254, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $112,496 — a $69,242 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 $73,967.
Nationally, insurance underwriter employment is projected to grow -2% over the next decade (decline). Despite slower growth nationally, experienced insurance underwriters with in-demand specializations continue to command strong salaries.
Insurance Underwriter Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level insurance underwriter earns around $44,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $102,350 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Iowa
| Percentile | IA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $43,254 |
| 25th Percentile | $54,468 |
| Median (50th) | $69,295 |
| 75th Percentile | $89,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $112,496 |
Insurance Underwriter Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for insurance underwriters 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 Insurance Underwriter in Iowa
Education
Most insurance underwriter positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, insurance underwriter employment is projected to grow -2% over the next decade (decline). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Insurance Underwriters who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $33,055 over your career trajectory.
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