Massage Therapist Salary in Iowa
The median massage therapist salary in Iowa is $44,375 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $49,860.
Massage Therapist Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for massage therapist compensation. Massage Therapist salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $44,375 per year, massage therapists in Iowa earn $5,485 less than the national median of $49,860.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $44,375 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $49,860 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: massage therapists at the 10th percentile earn $24,920, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $78,320 — a $53,400 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 $47,367.
Nationally, massage therapist employment is projected to grow 18% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Iowa and beyond.
Massage Therapist Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level massage therapist earns around $26,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,980 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
Save More on Student Loans
Earning $44,375? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Iowa
| Percentile | IA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $24,920 |
| 25th Percentile | $32,040 |
| Median (50th) | $44,375 |
| 75th Percentile | $60,520 |
| 90th Percentile | $78,320 |
Massage Therapist Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for massage therapists 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 Massage Therapist in Iowa
Education
Most massage therapist positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, massage therapist employment is projected to grow 18% over the next decade (much faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 151,400 other Massage Therapists.
Get a Professional Resume →Open to Massage Therapist Roles in Iowa?
Get matched with recruiters hiring massage therapists in Iowa at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: