Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Iowa
The median substance abuse counselor salary in Iowa is $44,242 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $49,710.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #40 out of 50 states for substance abuse counselor compensation. Substance Abuse Counselor salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $44,242 per year, substance abuse counselors in Iowa earn $5,468 less than the national median of $49,710.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $44,242 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $49,710 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: substance abuse counselors at the 10th percentile earn $26,700, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $72,980 — a $46,280 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 $47,225.
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Iowa and beyond.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $29,370, while experienced professionals earn up to $69,420 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 | $26,700 |
| 25th Percentile | $33,820 |
| Median (50th) | $44,242 |
| 75th Percentile | $57,850 |
| 90th Percentile | $72,980 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for substance abuse 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 Substance Abuse Counselor in Iowa
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
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