Truck Driver Salary in Iowa
The median truck driver salary in Iowa is $44,429 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $49,920.
Truck Driver Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for truck driver compensation. Truck Driver salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $44,429 per year, truck drivers in Iowa earn $5,491 less than the national median of $49,920.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $44,429 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $49,920 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: truck drivers at the 10th percentile earn $29,548, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $69,420 — a $39,872 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 $47,424.
Nationally, truck driver employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for truck drivers across the country.
Truck Driver Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level truck driver earns around $31,150, while experienced professionals earn up to $64,080 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 | $29,548 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,778 |
| Median (50th) | $44,429 |
| 75th Percentile | $56,782 |
| 90th Percentile | $69,420 |
Truck Driver Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for truck drivers 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 Truck Driver in Iowa
Education
Most truck driver positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, truck driver employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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