Veterinary Technician Salary in Iowa
The median veterinary technician salary in Iowa is $34,043 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $38,250.
Veterinary Technician Salary Overview in Iowa (2026)
Iowa ranks #39 out of 50 states for veterinary technician compensation. Veterinary Technician salaries in Iowa are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $34,043 per year, veterinary technicians in Iowa earn $4,207 less than the national median of $38,250.
A key advantage of working in Iowa is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $34,043 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $38,251 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Iowa is significant: veterinary technicians at the 10th percentile earn $24,030, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $48,950 — a $24,920 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 $36,338.
Nationally, veterinary technician employment is projected to grow 20% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Iowa and beyond.
Veterinary Technician Salary in Iowa by Experience
In Iowa, an entry-level veterinary technician earns around $25,810, while experienced professionals earn up to $47,170 per year. The cost of living index in Iowa is 89% of the national average.
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Earning $34,043? 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 | $24,030 |
| 25th Percentile | $28,480 |
| Median (50th) | $34,043 |
| 75th Percentile | $40,940 |
| 90th Percentile | $48,950 |
Veterinary Technician Salary by City in Iowa
The largest employment areas for veterinary technicians 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 Veterinary Technician in Iowa
Education
Most veterinary technician positions require a associate's degree. Iowa has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Iowa
Nationally, veterinary technician employment is projected to grow 20% over the next decade (much faster than average). Iowa's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 116,800 other Veterinary Technicians.
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