School Counselor Salary in Iowa
The median school counselor salary in Iowa is $53,525 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $60,140.
School Counselor Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for school counselor compensation. School Counselor salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $53,525 per year, school counselors in Iowa earn $6,615 less than the national median of $60,140.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $53,525 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $60,140 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: school counselors at the 10th percentile earn $33,998, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $84,372 — a $50,374 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 $57,133.
Nationally, school counselor employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for school counselors across the country.
School Counselor Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level school counselor earns around $35,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $75,650 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 | $33,998 |
| 25th Percentile | $41,830 |
| Median (50th) | $53,525 |
| 75th Percentile | $67,818 |
| 90th Percentile | $84,372 |
School Counselor Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for school counselors 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 School Counselor in Iowa
Education
Most school counselor positions require a master's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, school counselor employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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