Lawyer Salary in Iowa
The median lawyer salary in Iowa is $120,809 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $135,740.
Lawyer Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for lawyer compensation. Lawyer salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $120,809 per year, lawyers in Iowa earn $14,931 less than the national median of $135,740.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $120,809 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $135,740 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: lawyers at the 10th percentile earn $57,850, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $212,888 — a $155,038 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 $128,953.
Nationally, lawyer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for lawyers across the country.
Lawyer Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level lawyer earns around $62,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $195,800 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 | $57,850 |
| 25th Percentile | $75,650 |
| Median (50th) | $120,809 |
| 75th Percentile | $165,540 |
| 90th Percentile | $212,888 |
Lawyer Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for lawyers 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 Lawyer in Iowa
Education
Most lawyer positions require a doctoral degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, lawyer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Lawyers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $74,991 over your career trajectory.
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