Urban Planner Salary in Iowa City, Iowa
The median urban planner salary in Iowa City, IA is $75,563 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 6.7% above the Iowa state average.
Urban Planner Pay in Iowa City: What to Expect (2026)
Iowa City offers a median urban planner salary of $75,563, which is $4,772 above the Iowa state average of $70,791. Compared to the national median of $79,540, Iowa City pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Iowa City's cost of living is 95% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for urban planners in Iowa City spans from $47,500 at the 10th percentile to $115,900 at the 90th percentile — a $68,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $49,400, while senior urban planners with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $112,100. Iowa City is a smaller market (pop. 74,828), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Urban Planner Salary in Iowa City by Experience
In Iowa City, an entry-level urban planner earns around $49,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $112,100 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Iowa City, IA
| Percentile | Iowa City |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $47,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $59,850 |
| Median (50th) | $75,563 |
| 75th Percentile | $95,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $115,900 |
Urban Planner Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a Urban Planner in Iowa City
Education
Most urban planner positions require a master's degree. Iowa City and the surrounding Iowa area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, urban planner employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Iowa City may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Urban Planner Jobs in Iowa City
Browse open urban planner positions in Iowa City, IA: