Interior Designer Salary in Iowa
The median interior designer salary in Iowa is $54,815 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $61,590.
Interior Designer Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for interior designer compensation. Interior Designer salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $54,815 per year, interior designers in Iowa earn $6,775 less than the national median of $61,590.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $54,815 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $61,590 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: interior designers at the 10th percentile earn $30,260, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $96,120 — a $65,860 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 $58,511.
Nationally, interior designer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for interior designers across the country.
Interior Designer Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level interior designer earns around $32,040, while experienced professionals earn up to $89,000 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 | $30,260 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,160 |
| Median (50th) | $54,815 |
| 75th Percentile | $72,980 |
| 90th Percentile | $96,120 |
Interior Designer Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for interior designers 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 Interior Designer in Iowa
Education
Most interior designer positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, interior designer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Interior Designers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $34,185 over your career trajectory.
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