United States · Iowa · Pay by job

Highest paying jobs in Iowa after tax

Of the jobs with an exact median in Iowa, emergency medicine physician pays most: $429,050 a year, and a single filer keeps about $280,374 after federal income tax, Social Security, Medicare and Iowa tax. 2 more show only “$239,200 or more”.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025. Take-home for 2026, single filer, from our Iowa paycheck calculator.

Which 25 jobs pay best after tax in Iowa?

The 25 best-paid jobs in Iowa after tax
Rank	Job	Median pay	Take-home
1	Emergency Medicine Physician	$429,050	$280,374
2	Dermatologist	$424,970	$277,973
3	Radiologist	$405,220	$266,351
4	Ophthalmologist	$394,900	$260,277
5	Other Surgeon	$370,390	$245,853
6	Obstetrician and Gynecologist	$356,020	$237,396
7	Pathologist	$323,460	$218,235
8	Psychiatrist	$295,270	$201,645
9	Other Physician	$295,190	$201,598
10	Cardiologist	$283,070	$194,465
11	Nurse Anesthetist	$273,070	$188,580
12	Family Medicine Physician	$265,200	$183,735
13	General Pediatrician	$262,440	$182,028
14	Chief Executive	$211,190	$149,795
15	Orthopedic Surgeon	$189,410	$134,486
16	General Dentist	$181,520	$129,089
17	Physicist	$178,110	$126,888
18	Law Professor	$160,700	$115,650
19	Judge and Magistrate	$147,510	$107,136
20	Engineering Manager	$147,320	$107,013
21	IT Manager	$143,780	$104,728
22	Pharmacist	$138,860	$101,552
23	Other Psychologist	$138,420	$101,268
24	Podiatrist	$134,830	$98,951
25	Physician Assistant	$134,770	$98,912

Not ranked, because BLS shows only “$239,200 or more” in Iowa: Anesthesiologist, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon.

What does every job pay in Iowa?

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711 jobs.

Every job with a median in Iowa: pay, take-home and people
Job	Median pay	Take-home	People
Emergency Medicine Physician	$429,050	$280,374	290
Dermatologist	$424,970	$277,973	–
Radiologist	$405,220	$266,351	130
Ophthalmologist	$394,900	$260,277	90
Other Surgeon	$370,390	$245,853	110
Obstetrician and Gynecologist	$356,020	$237,396	180
Pathologist	$323,460	$218,235	80
Psychiatrist	$295,270	$201,645	170
Other Physician	$295,190	$201,598	1,440
Cardiologist	$283,070	$194,465	100
Nurse Anesthetist	$273,070	$188,580	380
Family Medicine Physician	$265,200	$183,735	1,140
General Pediatrician	$262,440	$182,028	230
Chief Executive	$211,190	$149,795	3,050
Orthopedic Surgeon	$189,410	$134,486	260
General Dentist	$181,520	$129,089	1,240
Physicist	$178,110	$126,888	110
Law Professor	$160,700	$115,650	90
Judge and Magistrate	$147,510	$107,136	410
Engineering Manager	$147,320	$107,013	1,520
IT Manager	$143,780	$104,728	3,920
Pharmacist	$138,860	$101,552	3,230
Other Psychologist	$138,420	$101,268	60
Podiatrist	$134,830	$98,951	100
Physician Assistant	$134,770	$98,912	1,200
Sales Manager	$134,010	$98,421	3,260
Financial Manager	$133,320	$97,976	9,130
Airline Pilot	$131,730	$96,950	100
Nurse Midwive	$131,360	$96,711	80
Marketing Manager	$131,120	$96,556	2,210
Nurse Practitioner	$130,160	$95,936	3,240
Actuary	$128,690	$94,987	530
Health Specialties Professor	$128,490	$94,858	3,230
Other Manager	$128,080	$94,593	3,600
Human Resources Manager	$126,370	$93,490	1,620
Optometrist	$125,380	$92,851	450
Computer Hardware Engineer	$125,120	$92,683	130
Veterinarian	$124,610	$92,354	1,000
Database Architect	$124,040	$91,986	240
Lawyer	$123,550	$91,669	3,550
Administrative Law Judge	$123,500	$91,637	80
Internal Medicine Physician	$122,920	$91,263	380
Purchasing Manager	$121,580	$90,393	610
Public Relations Manager	$120,730	$89,828	630
Information Security Analyst	$119,710	$89,149	1,160
Compensation and Benefits Manager	$118,250	$88,177	120
Chemical Engineer	$117,590	$87,738	40
Administrative Services Manager	$116,920	$87,292	1,380
Transportation Inspector	$116,850	$87,245	60
Elevator Installer and Repairer	$115,300	$86,214	90
Software Developer	$114,890	$85,941	9,040
Natural Sciences Manager	$109,760	$82,527	610
Advertising and Promotions Manager	$108,890	$81,948	210
Training and Development Manager	$108,330	$81,575	290
Other Computer Occupation	$107,340	$80,917	3,850
Industrial Production Manager	$106,510	$80,364	3,620
Health and Safety Engineer	$106,350	$80,258	230
Electrical Engineer	$105,820	$79,905	1,280
Financial Risk Specialist	$105,680	$79,812	530
Physics Professor	$104,270	$78,873	120
K-12 Education Administrator	$104,260	$78,867	3,310
Technical Sales Representative	$103,380	$78,281	2,580
Engineering Professor	$103,360	$78,268	430
Other Engineer	$103,090	$78,088	1,100
Computer Network Architect	$103,050	$78,062	1,170
Power Distributor and Dispatcher	$102,980	$78,015	–
Health Services Manager	$101,940	$77,323	6,200
Commercial Pilot	$101,800	$77,230	300
Database Administrator	$101,210	$76,837	360
Biochemist and Biophysicist	$101,090	$76,757	140
Agricultural Sciences Professor	$101,080	$76,751	230
Power Plant Operator	$100,500	$76,365	470
Power Line Installer	$100,200	$76,165	1,390
Construction Manager	$99,280	$75,553	3,070
Facilities Manager	$99,010	$75,373	2,340
Transportation and Distribution Manager	$99,010	$75,373	1,850
Police Supervisor	$98,840	$75,260	1,370
Fundraising Manager	$98,700	$75,167	370
Fish and Game Warden	$98,260	$74,874	120
Mechanical Engineer	$97,700	$74,501	3,470
Ship Captain and Mate	$97,700	$74,501	80
Industrial Engineer	$97,690	$74,494	3,600
Earth and Space Sciences Professor	$97,660	$74,475	50
Physical Therapist	$97,560	$74,408	2,530
Audiologist	$97,180	$74,155	270
Architect	$96,810	$73,909	650
Project Management Specialist	$96,540	$73,729	6,720
Civil Engineer	$96,430	$73,656	2,500
Economist	$96,310	$73,576	70
Soil and Plant Scientist	$96,310	$73,576	960
Agricultural Engineer	$96,290	$73,563	100
Computer Systems Analyst	$95,920	$73,317	4,760
Data Scientist	$95,830	$73,257	2,300
Environmental Engineer	$94,830	$72,591	150
Court Reporter	$93,810	$71,912	160
Postmaster and Mail Superintendent	$93,160	$71,480	260
Gas Plant Operator	$92,970	$71,353	480
Other Education Administrator	$92,970	$71,353	330
Nuclear Medicine Technologist	$92,890	$71,300	150
Financial and Investment Analyst	$92,370	$70,954	2,000
Personal Financial Advisor	$92,310	$70,914	1,920
Clinical Psychologist	$91,690	$70,501	440
Other Social Scientist	$91,560	$70,415	150
Other Social Worker	$91,170	$70,155	230
Air Traffic Controller	$90,790	$69,903	120
Refinery Operator	$90,160	$69,483	70
Locomotive Engineer	$89,970	$69,357	1,000
Occupational Therapist	$89,910	$69,317	1,290
Non-Retail Sales Supervisor	$89,640	$69,137	2,530
Computer Science Professor	$89,510	$69,051	290
Other Treating Practitioner	$89,480	$69,031	290
College Administrator	$89,320	$68,924	2,510
Software QA Analyst and Tester	$88,590	$68,438	1,000
Materials Scientist	$88,320	$68,259	180
Occupational Safety Specialist	$87,830	$67,933	1,310
General and Operations Manager	$87,690	$67,839	30,760
Orthotist and Prosthetist	$87,300	$67,580	90
Landscape Architect	$87,270	$67,560	80
Budget Analyst	$86,550	$67,081	390
Powerhouse and Substation Repairer	$86,490	$67,041	120
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer	$86,480	$67,034	740
Anthropology Professor	$86,390	$66,974	40
Chemist	$86,100	$66,781	570
Management Analyst	$85,530	$66,402	4,150
Economics Professor	$85,090	$66,109	80
Cartographer and Photogrammetrist	$84,570	$65,763	90
Network and Systems Administrator	$84,500	$65,717	3,110
Dental Hygienist	$84,010	$65,390	2,440
Library Science Professor	$83,950	$65,351	40
Other Social Sciences Professor	$83,920	$65,331	150
Medical Scientist	$83,850	$65,284	1,060
Control and Valve Installer	$83,830	$65,271	820
Loan Officer	$83,670	$65,164	2,840
Sales Engineer	$83,450	$65,018	310
Business Professor	$83,200	$64,851	890
Survey Researcher	$83,170	$64,831	90
Forester	$83,000	$64,718	50
Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist	$83,000	$64,718	90
Other Biological Scientist	$82,720	$64,532	550
Boilermaker	$82,470	$64,366	50
Chemistry Professor	$82,050	$64,086	230
Food Scientist and Technologist	$82,010	$64,059	380
Sociology Professor	$81,910	$63,993	140
Fire Inspector and Investigator	$81,860	$63,960	30
Biomedical Engineer	$81,710	$63,860	90
Radiation Therapist	$81,610	$63,793	120
MRI Technologist	$81,420	$63,667	220
Electronics Engineer	$81,330	$63,607	350
Funeral Home Manager	$81,220	$63,534	210
Hydrologist	$81,150	$63,487	50
Speech-Language Pathologist	$81,050	$63,421	1,540
Art Director	$80,940	$63,347	280
Railroad Brake and Signal Operator	$80,910	$63,327	220
Other Physical Scientist	$80,810	$63,261	100
Health Information Technologist	$80,600	$63,121	270
Operations Research Analyst	$80,580	$63,108	300
Other Business Operations Specialist	$80,470	$63,035	9,900
Financial Examiner	$80,370	$62,968	1,020
Mathematical Science Professor	$80,300	$62,921	450
Political Science Professor	$80,160	$62,828	100
Property Appraiser and Assessor	$80,160	$62,828	630
Statistician	$80,150	$62,822	250
Epidemiologist	$79,880	$62,642	90
Foreign Language Professor	$79,880	$62,642	210
Microbiologist	$79,830	$62,609	180
English Professor	$79,720	$62,535	510
Criminal Justice Professor	$79,690	$62,515	80
Environmental Science Professor	$79,570	$62,436	40
Detective	$79,560	$62,429	410
Other Financial Specialist	$79,390	$62,316	1,220
Family and Consumer Sciences Professor	$79,310	$62,263	40
Computer Programmer	$79,180	$62,176	950
Labor Relations Specialist	$79,140	$62,149	610
Architecture Professor	$79,100	$62,123	80
Urban and Regional Planner	$79,100	$62,123	300
Auto Damage Insurance Appraiser	$79,090	$62,116	–
Cardiovascular Technologist	$78,850	$61,956	380
Environmental Scientist	$78,780	$61,910	690
Logistician	$78,740	$61,883	2,480
Registered Nurse	$78,630	$61,810	34,420
Construction Supervisor	$78,510	$61,730	9,660
Psychology Professor	$78,450	$61,690	320
Maintenance and Repair Supervisor	$78,340	$61,617	6,450
Biological Science Professor	$78,060	$61,431	540
Farmer and Rancher	$77,930	$61,344	180
Art, Drama, and Music Professor	$77,740	$61,218	910
Communications Professor	$77,700	$61,191	320
Accountant and Auditor	$77,440	$61,018	13,210
Structural Iron and Steel Worker	$77,400	$60,992	–
Probation Officer	$77,390	$60,985	950
Nursing Professor	$77,360	$60,965	770
Philosophy and Religion Professor	$77,180	$60,845	260
Surveyor	$77,090	$60,785	450
History Professor	$77,040	$60,752	150
Atmospheric and Space Scientist	$76,850	$60,625	100
Credit Analyst	$76,760	$60,566	480
Gambling Manager	$76,350	$60,293	100
Cost Estimator	$76,040	$60,086	1,870
Firefighting Supervisor	$76,010	$60,066	600
Other Plant and System Operator	$75,800	$59,927	50
Health Education Specialist	$75,750	$59,893	540
Compliance Officer	$75,620	$59,807	3,660
Animal Scientist	$75,290	$59,587	60
Insurance Underwriter	$75,160	$59,501	1,490
Recreation and Fitness Studies Professor	$75,130	$59,481	100
Transportation Electronics Repairer	$75,130	$59,481	100
Chiropractor	$75,050	$59,428	970
Instructional Coordinator	$74,970	$59,374	2,760
Wind Turbine Service Technician	$74,880	$59,314	900
Electrical Engineering Technician	$74,840	$59,288	880
Respiratory Therapist	$74,760	$59,235	910
Production Supervisor	$74,750	$59,228	10,130
Electrical and Electronics Drafter	$74,470	$59,042	180
Police Officer	$74,470	$59,042	5,130
Geoscientist	$74,460	$59,035	40
Correctional Officer Supervisor	$74,420	$59,008	310
School Psychologist	$74,410	$59,002	400
Musician and Singer	$74,152	$58,830	250
Emergency Management Director	$73,700	$58,529	130
Electro-Mechanical Technician	$73,010	$58,070	180
Dietitian and Nutritionist	$72,690	$57,857	630
Rolling Machine Operator	$72,670	$57,844	660
Claims Adjuster and Examiner	$72,640	$57,824	3,930
Civil Engineering Technician	$72,540	$57,757	1,130
Industrial Electronics Repairer	$72,250	$57,564	1,130
Other Professor	$71,680	$57,185	1,480
Mechanical Engineering Technician	$71,670	$57,178	500
Construction Inspector	$71,630	$57,152	1,140
Other Special Education Teacher	$71,050	$56,766	340
Plating Machine Operator	$70,910	$56,672	440
Bridge and Lock Tender	$70,890	$56,659	50
Commercial and Industrial Designer	$70,420	$56,346	440
Buyer and Purchasing Agent	$70,360	$56,306	4,570
Aircraft Mechanic	$69,890	$55,994	330
Other Personal Service Manager	$69,720	$55,880	230
Brickmason and Blockmason	$69,440	$55,694	290
Conservation Scientist	$69,240	$55,561	610
Web and Digital Interface Designer	$69,060	$55,441	670
Entertainment and Recreation Manager	$68,320	$54,949	620
Traffic Technician	$68,100	$54,802	30
Crane and Tower Operator	$67,600	$54,470	650
Stationary Engineer	$67,450	$54,370	190
Anthropologist and Archeologist	$67,270	$54,250	40
Marriage and Family Therapist	$67,180	$54,190	240
Compensation and Benefits Specialist	$67,160	$54,177	1,070
Forensic Science Technician	$67,060	$54,110	130
Taper	$66,980	$54,057	100
Tax Examiner and Revenue Agent	$66,860	$53,977	210
Wholesale Sales Representative	$66,760	$53,911	16,990
Human Resources Specialist	$66,710	$53,877	7,930
Food Service Manager	$66,700	$53,871	1,760
Technical Writer	$66,520	$53,751	640
Sheet Metal Worker	$66,460	$53,707	1,650
Market Research Analyst	$66,390	$53,653	8,880
Religious Education Director	$66,140	$53,462	220
Training and Development Specialist	$66,110	$53,439	4,670
Surgical Assistant	$66,030	$53,378	30
Social and Community Service Manager	$65,940	$53,309	2,790
Radiologic Technologist	$65,930	$53,301	2,550
Telecom Equipment Installer	$65,710	$53,133	1,780
Tool and Die Maker	$65,000	$52,589	760
Machinery Maintenance Worker	$64,760	$52,406	900
Network Support Specialist	$64,600	$52,283	1,920
Industrial Engineering Technician	$64,410	$52,138	710
Industrial Machinery Mechanic	$64,400	$52,130	6,050
Office Supervisor	$64,400	$52,130	10,190
Audiovisual Equipment Installer	$64,390	$52,122	–
Financial Services Sales Agent	$64,290	$52,046	2,300
Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanic	$64,290	$52,046	2,820
Materials Engineer	$64,270	$52,030	200
Other Life Scientist	$64,270	$52,030	110
Judicial Law Clerk	$64,260	$52,023	90
Architectural and Civil Drafter	$64,220	$51,992	980
Web Developer	$64,210	$51,985	420
Social Work Professor	$64,190	$51,969	140
Occupational Therapy Assistant	$64,140	$51,931	400
Agricultural Technician	$64,070	$51,877	–
Fundraiser	$63,930	$51,770	1,230
Plumber	$63,890	$51,740	5,730
Security and Fire Alarm Installer	$63,750	$51,632	480
Mortician and Funeral Director	$63,700	$51,594	640
Middle School Special Education Teacher	$63,590	$51,510	990
Preschool Special Education Teacher	$63,540	$51,472	–
Metal and Plastic Patternmaker	$63,420	$51,380	90
Middle School Vocational Teacher	$63,360	$51,334	–
Mechanical Drafter	$63,330	$51,311	630
Other Engineering Technician	$63,120	$51,150	380
Healthcare Social Worker	$63,050	$51,097	1,550
Public Relations Specialist	$62,970	$51,035	2,890
Licensed Practical Nurse	$62,630	$50,775	5,510
Crushing and Grinding Machine Operator	$62,590	$50,744	1,420
Freezing Equipment Operator	$62,520	$50,691	290
Services Sales Representative	$62,420	$50,614	6,530
Rigger	$62,400	$50,599	200
Executive Assistant	$62,340	$50,553	4,150
Vocational Instructor	$62,270	$50,499	1,170
Millwright	$62,220	$50,461	690
Education Professor	$62,090	$50,362	690
Music Director and Composer	$61,740	$50,094	120
Transportation Security Screener	$61,590	$49,979	220
Metal and Plastic Model Maker	$61,550	$49,948	40
Calibration Technician	$61,490	$49,902	110
Eligibility Interviewer	$61,340	$49,788	1,040
High School Teacher	$61,200	$49,680	12,310
Paving Equipment Operator	$61,110	$49,612	–
Other Counselor	$61,080	$49,589	90
Physical Therapist Assistant	$61,030	$49,550	1,060
Writer and Author	$61,010	$49,535	290
Water Treatment Plant Operator	$60,990	$49,520	2,370
Utilities Meter Reader	$60,940	$49,481	120
Telecom Line Installer	$60,890	$49,443	820
Mental Health Counselor	$60,880	$49,435	3,530
Electrician	$60,860	$49,420	10,310
High School Special Education Teacher	$60,780	$49,359	1,570
Other Drafter	$60,750	$49,336	230
HVAC Technician	$60,680	$49,282	3,840
Clergy	$60,630	$49,244	370
Paramedic	$60,590	$49,213	1,170
Elementary School Teacher	$60,580	$49,206	17,300
Rail Car Repairer	$60,550	$49,183	340
Surgical Technologist	$60,540	$49,175	950
Postal Mail Sorter	$60,530	$49,168	1,040
Transportation Supervisor	$60,490	$49,137	6,480
Middle School Teacher	$60,450	$49,106	6,270
Chemical Plant and System Operator	$60,440	$49,099	490
Elementary Special Education Teacher	$60,440	$49,099	2,560
Construction Equipment Operator	$60,330	$49,014	5,530
Production and Planning Clerk	$60,320	$49,007	3,540
Insurance Sales Agent	$60,140	$48,869	6,840
Postal Service Clerk	$59,970	$48,739	1,190
Postal Service Mail Carrier	$59,880	$48,670	3,730
Farm Equipment Mechanic	$59,860	$48,655	2,210
Coil Winder, Taper, and Finisher	$59,780	$48,593	260
Diesel Mechanic	$59,680	$48,517	4,140
Lodging Manager	$59,680	$48,517	410
Mechanical Door Repairer	$59,640	$48,486	330
Hearing Aid Specialist	$59,550	$48,417	200
Surface Mining Machine Operator	$59,390	$48,295	560
Medical Equipment Repairer	$59,300	$48,226	650
Mason Helper	$59,220	$48,165	60
Farming and Forestry Supervisor	$59,150	$48,111	360
Archivist	$59,010	$48,004	40
Surveying and Mapping Technician	$58,950	$47,958	390
Barber	$58,900	$47,920	130
IT Support Specialist	$58,810	$47,851	6,140
Environmental Engineering Technician	$58,690	$47,759	80
Producer and Director	$58,550	$47,652	720
Highway Maintenance Worker	$58,490	$47,606	4,000
Advertising Sales Agent	$58,480	$47,598	900
Librarian	$58,440	$47,568	1,770
Kindergarten Teacher	$58,420	$47,552	1,160
Occupational Safety Technician	$58,300	$47,460	290
Cement Mason and Concrete Finisher	$58,220	$47,399	2,110
Chemical Technician	$58,090	$47,300	440
Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver	$58,070	$47,284	35,040
Interior Designer	$58,040	$47,261	510
Dredge Operator	$57,990	$47,223	60
Property and Real Estate Manager	$57,980	$47,215	2,290
Septic Tank Servicer	$57,980	$47,215	630
CNC Programmer	$57,780	$47,062	640
Carpenter	$57,710	$47,009	5,770
Massage Therapist	$57,710	$47,009	540
Landscaping Supervisor	$57,670	$46,978	1,140
High School Vocational Teacher	$57,660	$46,971	640
Chemical Equipment Operator	$57,550	$46,886	2,010
Machinist	$57,540	$46,879	2,880
Sound Engineering Technician	$57,400	$46,772	60
Glazier	$57,330	$46,718	430
Camera Operator	$57,220	$46,634	90
Editor	$57,200	$46,618	900
Metal-Refining Furnace Operator	$57,030	$46,488	330
Other Grounds Maintenance Worker	$57,030	$46,488	40
Conveyor Operator	$56,900	$46,389	590
Public Safety Telecommunicator	$56,770	$46,289	980
Solar Photovoltaic Installer	$56,740	$46,266	180
Exercise Physiologist	$56,640	$46,190	50
School and Career Counselor	$56,540	$46,113	3,690
Other Protective Service Supervisor	$56,410	$46,014	140
Brokerage Clerk	$56,360	$45,975	160
Recreational Therapist	$56,140	$45,807	230
Carpet Installer	$55,920	$45,639	–
Insulation Worker	$55,820	$45,562	460
Firefighter	$55,810	$45,554	2,170
Athletic Trainer	$55,430	$45,263	570
Vehicle Electronics Installer	$55,160	$45,057	–
Welder	$55,090	$45,003	9,270
Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor	$55,030	$44,957	–
Floor Layer	$54,960	$44,904	160
Paralegal and Legal Assistant	$54,550	$44,590	2,980
Mechanical Insulation Worker	$54,440	$44,506	140
Tile and Stone Setter	$54,350	$44,437	240
Clinical Lab Technologist	$54,260	$44,368	3,240
Animal Control Worker	$54,190	$44,314	80
Other Teacher	$54,080	$44,230	280
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerk	$54,080	$44,230	1,230
Earth Driller	$54,000	$44,169	190
Pipelayer	$53,990	$44,161	280
Curator	$53,830	$44,039	230
Tax Preparer	$53,660	$43,909	780
Correctional Officer	$53,040	$43,434	3,440
Gambling Services Supervisor	$52,820	$43,266	370
Fence Erector	$52,510	$43,028	290
CNC Machine Operator	$52,300	$42,867	4,750
Other Gambling Service Worker	$52,260	$42,837	30
Child and Family Social Worker	$52,250	$42,829	3,410
Separating Machine Operator	$52,220	$42,806	1,090
General Maintenance Worker	$52,160	$42,760	16,500
Bailiff	$52,100	$42,714	60
Environmental Science Technician	$52,020	$42,653	470
Forest and Conservation Technician	$52,000	$42,638	380
Medical Appliance Technician	$51,790	$42,477	80
Other Financial Clerk	$51,770	$42,462	130
Tool Grinder, Filer, and Sharpener	$51,760	$42,454	60
Event Planner	$51,750	$42,446	1,120
Museum Technician and Conservator	$51,740	$42,439	100
Welding Machine Operator	$51,740	$42,439	1,310
Other Office Support Worker	$51,700	$42,408	3,020
Milling Machine Operator	$51,600	$42,332	140
Mixing Machine Operator	$51,570	$42,309	2,310
Tank Car, Truck, and Ship Loader	$51,450	$42,217	180
Structural Metal Fabricator	$51,360	$42,148	650
Woodworking Machine Operator	$51,200	$42,025	1,100
Audio and Video Technician	$51,030	$41,895	290
Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installer	$51,030	$41,895	290
Other Material Moving Worker	$50,960	$41,842	40
Radio and Cell Tower Installer	$50,760	$41,689	50
Food Science Technician	$50,740	$41,673	420
Quality Control Inspector	$50,740	$41,673	7,230
Medical Records Specialist	$50,640	$41,597	2,250
Set and Exhibit Designer	$50,640	$41,597	60
Tire Builder	$50,600	$41,566	510
Auto Mechanic	$50,510	$41,497	7,610
Other Science Technician	$50,480	$41,474	420
Fiberglass Laminator and Fabricator	$50,450	$41,451	40
Lathe Operator	$50,370	$41,390	180
Graphic Designer	$50,310	$41,344	2,100
Jeweler	$50,280	$41,321	160
Real Estate Broker	$50,140	$41,214	–
Loan Interviewer and Clerk	$50,080	$41,168	2,380
Other Media Worker	$50,080	$41,168	80
Motorboat Mechanic	$49,930	$41,053	110
Hazardous Materials Removal Worker	$49,870	$41,007	270
Refuse and Recycling Collector	$49,850	$40,992	1,780
Credit Authorizer	$49,780	$40,938	240
Heat Treating Equipment Operator	$49,760	$40,923	120
Construction Painter	$49,710	$40,885	1,770
Agricultural Inspector	$49,600	$40,801	560
Cutting Machine Operator	$49,600	$40,801	920
Other Information and Record Clerk	$49,440	$40,678	540
Auto Body Repairer	$49,400	$40,648	1,830
Coach and Scout	$49,350	$40,609	3,410
Forming and Pressing Machine Operator	$49,340	$40,602	500
Coating and Painting Machine Operator	$49,330	$40,594	3,220
Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator	$49,220	$40,510	170
Foundry Mold and Coremaker	$49,060	$40,387	480
Other Mathematical Scientist	$49,020	$40,357	30
Metal Pourer and Caster	$49,010	$40,349	80
Miscellaneous Assembler	$48,920	$40,280	19,540
Multiple Machine Tool Operator	$48,910	$40,272	4,460
Airfield Operations Specialist	$48,870	$40,242	40
Procurement Clerk	$48,870	$40,242	680
Other Maintenance and Repair Worker	$48,680	$40,096	2,050
Roofer	$48,660	$40,081	930
Hand Cutter and Trimmer	$48,580	$40,020	–
Mental Health Social Worker	$48,530	$39,982	1,200
Construction Laborer	$48,490	$39,951	13,780
Human Resources Assistant	$48,490	$39,951	920
Underground Loading Machine Operator	$48,490	$39,951	100
Dental Assistant	$48,430	$39,905	3,210
Other Construction Helper	$48,430	$39,905	230
Fiber Extruding Machine Operator	$48,400	$39,882	100
Cargo and Freight Agent	$48,370	$39,859	660
Food Batchmaker	$48,300	$39,805	4,160
Other Motor Vehicle Operator	$48,300	$39,805	50
Court and Municipal Clerk	$48,280	$39,790	2,390
Cutting and Press Machine Operator	$48,240	$39,760	2,030
Farm and Home Management Educator	$48,200	$39,729	520
Bookkeeper and Accounting Clerk	$48,180	$39,714	14,020
Interpreter and Translator	$48,150	$39,691	560
Credit Counselor	$48,130	$39,675	440
Sailor and Marine Oiler	$48,100	$39,652	70
Wood Sawing Machine Operator	$48,090	$39,645	240
Biological Technician	$48,050	$39,614	800
RV Service Technician	$48,030	$39,599	420
Adult Education and ESL Instructor	$48,010	$39,583	370
Chef and Head Cook	$47,990	$39,568	1,640
Food Roasting Machine Operator	$47,960	$39,545	660
Other Health Technician	$47,910	$39,507	1,600
Food Cooking Machine Operator	$47,900	$39,499	850
Community Health Worker	$47,780	$39,407	390
Prepress Technician and Worker	$47,770	$39,400	210
Forklift and Industrial Truck Operator	$47,590	$39,262	7,770
Shipping and Receiving Clerk	$47,590	$39,262	7,170
Special Effects Artist and Animator	$47,530	$39,216	–
Dental Laboratory Technician	$47,520	$39,208	380
Preschool and Daycare Administrator	$47,480	$39,178	1,020
Computer and Office Machine Repairer	$47,330	$39,063	420
Hand Grinding and Polishing Worker	$47,280	$39,025	–
Metal Extruding Machine Operator	$47,240	$38,994	450
Agricultural Equipment Operator	$47,220	$38,979	1,530
Housekeeping Supervisor	$47,200	$38,963	2,000
Electric Motor and Power Tool Repairer	$47,180	$38,948	210
Weigher, Checker, and Sampler	$47,180	$38,948	410
Driver/Sales Worker	$47,120	$38,902	4,400
Billing and Posting Clerk	$47,110	$38,895	3,660
Cabinetmaker and Bench Carpenter	$47,110	$38,895	1,010
Forging Machine Operator	$47,010	$38,818	–
Dispatcher	$47,000	$38,810	1,460
Miscellaneous Construction Worker	$46,990	$38,803	220
Cleaning Equipment Operator	$46,970	$38,787	430
Broadcast Technician	$46,820	$38,673	180
Floor Sander and Finisher	$46,810	$38,665	30
Pesticide Applicator	$46,740	$38,611	600
Painting and Coating Worker	$46,670	$38,558	100
Parts Salesperson	$46,670	$38,558	3,810
Retail Sales Supervisor	$46,610	$38,512	9,970
Legal Secretary	$46,590	$38,496	1,120
Other Metal and Plastic Worker	$46,570	$38,481	40
File Clerk	$46,560	$38,473	430
Security Supervisor	$46,560	$38,473	390
Furniture Finisher	$46,530	$38,451	70
Other Social Service Specialist	$46,460	$38,397	250
Insurance Claims Clerk	$46,430	$38,374	2,820
Grinding Machine Operator	$46,380	$38,336	890
Locksmith and Safe Repairer	$46,360	$38,320	120
Title Examiner	$46,330	$38,297	400
School Bus Driver	$46,320	$38,290	4,840
Molder, Shaper, and Caster	$46,220	$38,213	340
Paper Goods Machine Operator	$46,110	$38,129	1,010
Customer Service Representative	$46,090	$38,114	30,100
Engine and Other Machine Assembler	$46,040	$38,075	60
Bill and Account Collector	$46,000	$38,045	830
Other Precision Instrument Repairer	$45,960	$38,014	200
Furnace and Kiln Operator	$45,910	$37,976	100
Transit and Intercity Bus Driver	$45,890	$37,961	1,560
Small Engine Mechanic	$45,830	$37,915	430
Vending Machine Repairer	$45,740	$37,846	380
Packaging Machine Operator	$45,660	$37,785	6,990
Rail-Track Equipment Operator	$45,640	$37,769	200
New Accounts Clerk	$45,630	$37,762	1,320
Production Helper	$45,560	$37,708	2,070
Veterinary Technician	$45,560	$37,708	1,220
Auto Glass Installer	$45,520	$37,677	110
Medical Assistant	$45,480	$37,647	5,990
Travel Agent	$45,440	$37,616	290
Manicurist and Pedicurist	$45,420	$37,601	190
Pest Control Worker	$45,290	$37,501	540
Machine Feeder and Offbearer	$45,250	$37,471	560
Metal Molding Machine Operator	$45,220	$37,448	3,670
Administrative Assistant	$45,150	$37,394	12,830
Medical Transcriptionist	$45,010	$37,287	180
Order Clerk	$44,980	$37,264	680
Electrical and Electronic Assembler	$44,880	$37,187	4,000
Pharmacy Technician	$44,860	$37,172	4,630
Motorcycle Mechanic	$44,840	$37,157	300
Other Healthcare Support Worker	$44,720	$37,065	470
Proofreader and Copy Marker	$44,680	$37,034	110
Dispensing Optician	$44,480	$36,881	920
Other Legal Support Worker	$44,470	$36,874	760
Other Production Worker	$44,450	$36,858	3,480
General Office Clerk	$44,310	$36,751	23,120
Other Religious Worker	$44,110	$36,598	230
Home Appliance Repairer	$44,090	$36,583	210
Ophthalmic Medical Technician	$44,030	$36,537	500
Drilling Machine Operator	$43,860	$36,407	110
Slaughterer and Meat Packer	$43,820	$36,376	4,220
Data Entry Keyer	$43,640	$36,238	1,180
News Reporter and Journalist	$43,540	$36,162	590
Hand Laborer and Material Mover	$43,490	$36,123	30,890
Parking Enforcement Worker	$43,370	$36,032	50
Photo Processing Worker	$43,310	$35,986	90
Word Processor and Typist	$43,210	$35,909	360
Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutter	$43,190	$35,894	3,970
Umpire and Referee	$43,040	$35,779	190
Animal Trainer	$43,020	$35,764	180
Etcher and Engraver	$42,950	$35,710	70
Psychiatric Technician	$42,910	$35,679	690
Tree Trimmer and Pruner	$42,890	$35,664	380
Light Truck Driver	$42,750	$35,557	9,680
Roofer Helper	$42,650	$35,480	–
Upholsterer	$42,610	$35,450	80
Social and Human Service Assistant	$42,480	$35,350	5,230
Agricultural Grader and Sorter	$42,450	$35,327	170
Hand Sewer	$42,290	$35,205	40
Other Healthcare Technical Worker	$42,070	$35,036	410
Recreation Supervisor	$41,950	$34,945	1,340
Other Food Processing Worker	$41,740	$34,784	5,210
Electrician Helper	$41,610	$34,684	310
Office Machine Operator	$41,330	$34,470	250
Crossing Guard and Flagger	$41,240	$34,401	170
Private Detective and Investigator	$41,110	$34,302	170
Medical Secretary	$40,980	$34,202	10,560
Social Science Research Assistant	$40,940	$34,171	140
Printing Press Operator	$40,790	$34,057	2,070
Emergency Medical Technician	$40,660	$33,957	1,510
Other Education Worker	$40,620	$33,926	1,050
Other Agricultural Worker	$40,130	$33,551	–
Concierge	$40,080	$33,513	70
Funeral Attendant	$40,060	$33,498	460
Medical Equipment Preparer	$39,930	$33,398	590
Carpenter Helper	$39,830	$33,322	100
Merchandise Displayer and Window Trimmer	$39,680	$33,207	1,860
Rehabilitation Counselor	$39,630	$33,169	2,170
Other Artist and Related Worker	$39,550	$33,107	70
Blaster and Explosives Worker	$39,520	$33,084	90
Interviewer	$39,520	$33,084	1,800
Embalmer	$39,490	$33,061	–
Nursing Assistant	$39,350	$32,954	22,670
Psychiatric Aide	$39,260	$32,885	400
Counter and Rental Clerk	$38,960	$32,656	1,900
Graduate Teaching Assistant	$38,960	$32,656	560
Landscaper and Groundskeeper	$38,920	$32,625	8,800
Print Binding and Finishing Worker	$38,790	$32,526	330
Personal Service Supervisor	$38,780	$32,518	770
Food Service Supervisor	$38,760	$32,503	11,400
Musical Instrument Repairer and Tuner	$38,700	$32,457	90
Maintenance and Repair Helper	$38,690	$32,449	990
Library Technician	$38,590	$32,372	1,510
Courier and Messenger	$38,460	$32,273	580
Teller	$38,450	$32,265	5,470
Switchboard Operator	$38,400	$32,227	210
Photographer	$38,290	$32,143	430
Phlebotomist	$38,240	$32,105	1,100
Gambling Booth Cashier	$38,230	$32,097	400
Tire Repairer and Changer	$38,210	$32,082	990
Other Protective Service Worker	$38,160	$32,043	–
Plumber Helper	$37,870	$31,821	350
Butcher and Meat Cutter	$37,750	$31,729	4,480
Crop and Nursery Farmworker	$37,590	$31,607	930
Hand Packer and Packager	$37,470	$31,515	4,090
Sports Book Writer and Runner	$37,440	$31,492	100
Receptionist and Information Clerk	$37,330	$31,408	4,660
Gambling Cage Worker	$37,230	$31,331	210
Substitute Teacher	$37,230	$31,331	7,300
Baker	$37,210	$31,316	2,150
Broadcast Announcer and Radio DJ	$37,090	$31,224	320
Security Guard	$37,080	$31,217	6,890
Skincare Specialist	$37,080	$31,217	710
Demonstrator and Product Promoter	$37,050	$31,194	280
Reservation and Ticket Agent	$36,880	$31,063	200
Orderly	$36,850	$31,040	260
Residential Advisor	$36,850	$31,040	780
Tutor	$36,790	$30,995	610
Stocker and Order Filler	$36,640	$30,880	26,770
Farm and Ranch Animal Worker	$36,480	$30,757	1,240
Fitness Trainer and Instructor	$36,160	$30,512	2,510
Ambulance Driver and Attendant	$36,090	$30,459	370
Home Health Aide	$36,080	$30,451	25,800
Cleaners of Vehicle and Equipment	$35,920	$30,329	4,190
Sewing Machine Operator	$35,870	$30,290	590
Institution and Cafeteria Cook	$35,810	$30,244	8,860
Gambling Surveillance Officer	$35,750	$30,198	230
Veterinary Assistant	$35,720	$30,175	1,380
Hairstylist and Cosmetologist	$35,700	$30,160	2,930
Restaurant Cook	$35,670	$30,137	12,270
Self-Enrichment Teacher	$35,670	$30,137	2,910
Mail Clerk	$35,610	$30,091	830
Aircraft Service Attendant	$35,560	$30,053	160
Janitor	$35,380	$29,915	23,960
Floral Designer	$35,340	$29,885	430
Other Sales and Related Worker	$35,250	$29,816	950
Dietetic Technician	$35,220	$29,793	350
Crematory Operator	$35,120	$29,716	–
Bicycle Repairer	$34,240	$29,043	230
Short Order Cook	$34,090	$28,928	1,160
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker	$34,050	$28,897	1,900
Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician	$33,910	$28,790	100
Preschool Teacher	$33,830	$28,729	5,910
Knitting and Weaving Machine Operator	$33,730	$28,652	70
Recreation Worker	$33,700	$28,629	2,870
Telemarketer	$33,640	$28,583	1,100
Forest and Conservation Worker	$33,600	$28,553	40
Other Food Service Worker	$33,480	$28,461	310
Other Entertainment Attendant	$33,370	$28,377	80
Pharmacy Aide	$33,270	$28,300	1,070
Garment Presser	$32,990	$28,086	100
School Bus Monitor	$32,740	$27,894	520
Maid and Housekeeper	$32,620	$27,802	8,160
Shuttle Driver and Chauffeur	$32,580	$27,772	1,880
Tailor and Dressmaker	$31,680	$27,083	130
Retail Salesperson	$31,360	$26,838	41,000
Other Personal Care Worker	$31,200	$26,715	310
Baggage Porter and Bellhop	$31,150	$26,677	30
Automotive Service Attendant	$30,810	$26,417	340
Hotel Desk Clerk	$30,590	$26,248	2,790
Teaching Assistant	$30,510	$26,187	24,520
Food Preparation Worker	$30,360	$26,072	4,170
Nonrestaurant Food Server	$30,110	$25,881	5,270
Animal Caretaker	$30,080	$25,858	3,480
Parking Attendant	$30,070	$25,850	1,050
Textile Cutting Machine Operator	$30,060	$25,843	70
Library Assistant	$29,480	$25,399	1,700
Dishwasher	$29,300	$25,261	3,290
Physical Therapist Aide	$29,120	$25,123	390
Cashier	$28,970	$25,008	41,450
Fast Food Cook	$28,510	$24,656	8,290
Childcare Worker	$28,420	$24,586	6,020
Fast Food and Counter Worker	$28,390	$24,562	40,290
Busser and Dining Room Attendant	$28,210	$24,421	3,250
Restaurant Host and Hostess	$28,210	$24,421	2,630
Amusement and Recreation Attendant	$27,430	$23,808	5,050
Other Cook	$26,060	$22,732	210
Usher and Ticket Taker	$25,720	$22,465	750
Lifeguard and Ski Patrol	$25,460	$22,261	1,410
Locker Room Attendant	$23,720	$20,894	280
Motion Picture Projectionist	$23,210	$20,493	100
Gambling Dealer	$23,020	$20,344	970
Tour and Travel Guide	$22,490	$19,928	330
Bartender	$21,720	$19,323	9,560
Waiter and Waitress	$21,000	$18,757	22,410
Other Entertainer and Performer	$20,800	$18,600	80

Best take-home first. Jobs with no Iowa median from BLS are left out; each job’s own page has the national figures.

Which other states can I check?

All jobs and groups: pay by job. Your own paycheck: the Iowa paycheck calculator.

Questions about pay in Iowa

What is the highest-paying job in Iowa?

BLS shows a median of “$239,200 or more” for 2 jobs in Iowa, such as anesthesiologist. Of the jobs with an exact median, emergency medicine physician pays most: $429,050, or $280,374 after tax.

What is the most common job in Iowa?

Cashier: about 41,450 people in Iowa, with a median of $28,970.

How much do you take home on the median Iowa salary?

The median pay for all jobs in Iowa is $48,540 (BLS, May 2025). A single filer keeps about $39,989 a year after federal income tax, Social Security, Medicare and Iowa tax.

Which job pays more in Iowa than in the rest of the US?

Among jobs with at least 1,000 people in Iowa, crushing and grinding machine operator pays furthest above its US median: $62,590 here, 29% more than the national $48,540.

Where do these figures come from?

Pay is the BLS estimate for May 2025, for all employers in Iowa. Take-home is our 2026 estimate for one job, single, standard deduction, nothing taken before tax.