Registered Nurse Salary in Iowa
The median registered nurse salary in Iowa is $72,286 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #40 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Registered Nurse salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $72,286 per year, registered nurses in Iowa earn $8,934 less than the national median of $81,220.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $72,286 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $81,220 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $51,086, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $107,512 — a $56,426 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 $77,159.
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for registered nurses across the country.
Registered Nurse Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $51,620, while experienced professionals earn up to $102,350 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
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| Percentile | IA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $51,086 |
| 25th Percentile | $59,452 |
| Median (50th) | $72,286 |
| 75th Percentile | $89,979 |
| 90th Percentile | $107,512 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for registered nurses 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 Registered Nurse in Iowa
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% 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 Registered Nurses who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $30,064 over your career trajectory.
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