Marine Engineer Salary in Iowa
The median marine engineer salary in Iowa is $86,250 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $96,910.
Marine Engineer Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for marine engineer compensation. Marine Engineer salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $86,250 per year, marine engineers in Iowa earn $10,660 less than the national median of $96,910.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $86,250 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $96,910 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: marine engineers at the 10th percentile earn $51,620, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $135,280 — a $83,660 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 $92,065.
Nationally, marine engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for marine engineers across the country.
Marine Engineer Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level marine engineer earns around $55,180, while experienced professionals earn up to $129,050 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
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| Percentile | IA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $51,620 |
| 25th Percentile | $67,640 |
| Median (50th) | $86,250 |
| 75th Percentile | $110,360 |
| 90th Percentile | $135,280 |
Marine Engineer Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for marine engineers 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 Marine Engineer in Iowa
Education
Most marine engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, marine engineer 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 Marine Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $42,800 over your career trajectory.
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