Judge Salary in Iowa
The median judge salary in Iowa is $131,747 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $148,030.
Judge Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for judge compensation. Judge salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $131,747 per year, judges in Iowa earn $16,283 less than the national median of $148,030.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $131,747 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $148,030 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: judges at the 10th percentile earn $51,620, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $204,700 — a $153,080 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 $140,629.
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for judges across the country.
Judge Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level judge earns around $57,850, while experienced professionals earn up to $191,350 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
You May Qualify for Premium Rewards
Professionals earning $131,747+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.
View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Iowa
| Percentile | IA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $51,620 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,100 |
| Median (50th) | $131,747 |
| 75th Percentile | $173,550 |
| 90th Percentile | $204,700 |
Judge Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for judges 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 Judge in Iowa
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% 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 Judges who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $59,603 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Judge Roles in Iowa?
Get matched with recruiters hiring judges in Iowa at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: