Teacher (K-12) Salary in Iowa
The median teacher (k-12) salary in Iowa is $54,904 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $61,690.
Teacher (K-12) Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for teacher (k-12) compensation. Teacher (K-12) salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $54,904 per year, teacher (k-12)s in Iowa earn $6,786 less than the national median of $61,690.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $54,904 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $61,690 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: teacher (k-12)s at the 10th percentile earn $36,846, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $89,890 — a $53,044 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 $58,606.
Nationally, teacher (k-12) employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for teacher (k-12)s across the country.
Teacher (K-12) Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level teacher (k-12) earns around $37,380, while experienced professionals earn up to $81,880 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
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Earning $54,904? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Iowa
| Percentile | IA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,846 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,432 |
| Median (50th) | $54,904 |
| 75th Percentile | $70,488 |
| 90th Percentile | $89,890 |
Teacher (K-12) Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for teacher (k-12)s 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 Teacher (K-12) in Iowa
Education
Most teacher (k-12) positions require a bachelor's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, teacher (k-12) employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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