Science & Research Iowa (IA) Rank #39 of 50

Physicist Salary in Iowa

The median physicist salary in Iowa is $135,663 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $152,430.

Median Salary

$135,663

vs National

$-16,767

State Rank

#39 of 50

Cost of Living

89%

Physicist Salary in Iowa by Experience

In Iowa, an entry-level physicist earns around $72,980, while experienced professionals earn up to $195,800 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$72,980

$-9,020 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$137,950

$-17,050 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$195,800

$-24,200 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Iowa

Percentile	IA Salary	National	Difference
10th Percentile	$69,420	$78,000	$-8,580
25th Percentile	$96,120	$108,000	$-11,880
Median (50th)	$135,663	$152,430	$-16,767
75th Percentile	$173,550	$195,000	$-21,450
90th Percentile	$211,820	$238,000	$-26,180

Physicist Salary by City in Iowa

The largest employment areas for physicists in Iowa include Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, and Sioux City. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

Des Moines, IA

$140,236

Pop. 214,133 · COL 92%

Cedar Rapids, IA

$134,138

Pop. 137,710 · COL 88%

Davenport, IA

$131,090

Pop. 101,724 · COL 86%

Sioux City, IA

$128,041

Pop. 85,797 · COL 84%

Iowa City, IA

$144,809

Pop. 74,828 · COL 95%

How to Become a Physicist in Iowa

Education

Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Mathematical ModelingExperimental PhysicsPython/MATLABData AnalysisScientific WritingLaboratory Equipment

Job Outlook in Iowa

Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.