Real Estate Appraiser Salary in Iowa
The median real estate appraiser salary in Iowa is $55,020 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $61,820.
Real Estate Appraiser Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for real estate appraiser compensation. Real Estate Appraiser salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $55,020 per year, real estate appraisers in Iowa earn $6,800 less than the national median of $61,820.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $55,020 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $61,820 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: real estate appraisers at the 10th percentile earn $32,040, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $90,780 — a $58,740 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 $58,729.
Nationally, real estate appraiser employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for real estate appraisers across the country.
Real Estate Appraiser Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level real estate appraiser earns around $33,820, while experienced professionals earn up to $85,440 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 | $32,040 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,940 |
| Median (50th) | $55,020 |
| 75th Percentile | $71,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $90,780 |
Real Estate Appraiser Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for real estate appraisers 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 Real Estate Appraiser in Iowa
Education
Most real estate appraiser positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, real estate appraiser employment is projected to grow 5% 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 Real Estate Appraisers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $30,420 over your career trajectory.
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