How Civil Engineers in Iowa get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Iowa compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $64,300 | $48,900 | $83,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $80,000 | $60,800 | $104,000 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $92,000 | $69,900 | $119,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $110,400 | $83,800 | $143,500 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $125,100 | $95,000 | $162,600 |
Top occupations by median pay in Iowa — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Civil Engineer salary in Iowa is $92,000 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $69,900 and the 75th at $119,600.
Pay-wise, Iowa sits -15% below the national Civil Engineer median ($108,200). Wages run below the national median, but cost of living is often correspondingly lower; net purchasing power may be similar to higher-paying states.
Senior Civil Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in Iowa earn around $110,400 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $125,100 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Iowa ranks 41st for Civil Engineer pay. The highest-paying state pays around $151,500 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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