Nuclear Engineer Salary in Iowa
The median nuclear engineer salary in Iowa is $107,138 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $120,380.
Nuclear Engineer Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for nuclear engineer compensation. Nuclear Engineer salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $107,138 per year, nuclear engineers in Iowa earn $13,242 less than the national median of $120,380.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $107,138 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $120,380 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: nuclear engineers at the 10th percentile earn $67,640, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $158,420 — a $90,780 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 $114,361.
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for nuclear engineers across the country.
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level nuclear engineer earns around $69,420, while experienced professionals earn up to $153,080 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 | $67,640 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,440 |
| Median (50th) | $107,138 |
| 75th Percentile | $131,720 |
| 90th Percentile | $158,420 |
Nuclear Engineer Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for nuclear 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 Nuclear Engineer in Iowa
Education
Most nuclear engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, nuclear 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 Nuclear Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $45,942 over your career trajectory.
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