Police Officer Salary in Iowa
The median police officer salary in Iowa is $58,553 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $65,790.
Police Officer Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for police officer compensation. Police Officer salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $58,553 per year, police officers in Iowa earn $7,237 less than the national median of $65,790.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $58,553 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $65,790 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: police officers at the 10th percentile earn $35,956, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $94,340 — a $58,384 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 $62,501.
Nationally, police officer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for police officers across the country.
Police Officer Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level police officer earns around $37,380, while experienced professionals earn up to $87,220 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 | $35,956 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,568 |
| Median (50th) | $58,553 |
| 75th Percentile | $77,608 |
| 90th Percentile | $94,340 |
Police Officer Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for police officers 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 Police Officer in Iowa
Education
Most police officer positions require a high school diploma. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, police officer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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