Museum Curator Salary in Iowa
The median museum curator salary in Iowa is $53,498 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $60,110.
Museum Curator Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for museum curator compensation. Museum Curator salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $53,498 per year, museum curators in Iowa earn $6,612 less than the national median of $60,110.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $53,498 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $60,110 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: museum curators at the 10th percentile earn $31,150, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $87,220 — a $56,070 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 $57,105.
Nationally, museum curator employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Iowa and beyond.
Museum Curator Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level museum curator earns around $33,820, while experienced professionals earn up to $81,880 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 | $31,150 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,160 |
| Median (50th) | $53,498 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,420 |
| 90th Percentile | $87,220 |
Museum Curator Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for museum curators 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 Museum Curator in Iowa
Education
Most museum curator positions require a master's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, museum curator employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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