How Elementary Teachers 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) | $42,400 | $32,200 | $55,200 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $52,800 | $40,100 | $68,600 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $60,700 | $46,100 | $78,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $72,800 | $55,300 | $94,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $82,500 | $62,600 | $107,300 |
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 Elementary Teacher salary in Iowa is $60,700 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $46,100 and the 75th at $78,900.
Pay-wise, Iowa sits -15% below the national Elementary Teacher median ($71,400). 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 Elementary Teachers (10–14 years of experience) in Iowa earn around $72,800 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $82,500 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Iowa ranks 41st for Elementary Teacher pay. The highest-paying state pays around $105,700 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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