Petroleum Engineer Salary in Iowa
The median petroleum engineer salary in Iowa is $117,302 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $131,800.
Petroleum Engineer Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for petroleum engineer compensation. Petroleum Engineer salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $117,302 per year, petroleum engineers in Iowa earn $14,498 less than the national median of $131,800.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $117,302 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $131,800 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: petroleum engineers at the 10th percentile earn $71,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $179,780 — a $108,580 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 $125,210.
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for petroleum engineers across the country.
Petroleum Engineer Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level petroleum engineer earns around $74,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $173,550 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 | $71,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,780 |
| Median (50th) | $117,302 |
| 75th Percentile | $149,520 |
| 90th Percentile | $179,780 |
Petroleum Engineer Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for petroleum 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 Petroleum Engineer in Iowa
Education
Most petroleum engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, petroleum engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Petroleum Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $56,248 over your career trajectory.
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