Firefighter Salaries in Iowa — 2026 Overview
BLS 2026How much does a firefighter make in Iowa? The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $55,190/yr ($26.54/hr), with around 2,050 people working in this field statewide.
Firefighter salaries in Iowa are below the national average by approximately $2,172. Iowa has a state income tax rate of up to 6%.
Iowa's diverse economy underpins consistent demand for firefighters across both urban and rural areas.
Iowa Firefighter Take-Home Pay Calculator
InteractiveEnter your gross annual salary to estimate take-home pay in Iowa after federal tax, Social Security and Medicare. Iowa has a state income tax rate of up to 6%.
Estimate based on 2026 federal tax brackets, single filer, standard deduction. Iowa has a state income tax rate of up to 6%. Does not account for local taxes or benefit deductions.
Am I Paid Fairly? — Iowa Firefighter Check
InteractiveEnter your current salary to see how it compares to the Iowa median of $55,190.
Firefighter Salary by Experience — Iowa
Firefighter Salary Trend in Iowa — 2021 to 2026
5-Year Datafirefighters pay in Iowa has risen approximately 13.9% since 2021, mirroring national trends across the firefighter workforce. The growth reflects broader workforce and economic conditions in Iowa's fire protection and emergency services.
Firefighter Salary by City — Iowa
BLS Metro Data| City / Metro Area | Annual Median | Hourly | vs State | Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines | $61,250 | $29.45 | +11.0% | 717 |
| Cedar Rapids | $58,500 | $28.12 | +6.0% | 574 |
| Davenport | $56,850 | $27.33 | +3.0% | 369 |
| Sioux City | $53,000 | $25.48 | -4.0% | 184 |
| Iowa City | $50,200 | $24.13 | -9.0% | 123 |
| Waterloo | $48,000 | $23.08 | -13.0% | 82 |
Tip: Des Moines offers the highest firefighter salaries in Iowa at $61,250/yr — +11.0% above the state average.
Iowa vs Nearby States — Purchasing Power
Cost of Living AdjustedGross salary figures don't tell the whole story. After adjusting for state income tax, Iowa sits in the mid-range for firefighters.
Take-home estimates based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 federal brackets. Iowa has a state income tax rate of up to 6%.
Firefighter Job Outlook in Iowa
BLS ProjectionsEmployment for firefighters in Iowa is projected to grow over the next decade, driven by strong demand across the Iowa job market. Iowa's diverse economy underpins consistent demand for firefighters across both urban and rural areas.
How to Earn More as a Firefighter in Iowa
1. Pursue advanced certification or licensing. Moving from entry to senior level as a firefighter in Iowa typically adds $45,300 to your annual salary. Additional certifications from the State Fire Marshal's Office can accelerate this progression.
2. Target the highest-paying city. Des Moines pays firefighters $61,250/yr — +11.0% above the Iowa average. Simply relocating within Iowa can meaningfully increase your income without changing careers.
3. Specialise in high-demand areas. Firefighters who specialise in fire protection and emergency services typically command premium rates in Iowa. Identifying growing niches within your field is one of the fastest paths to higher pay.
4. Consider neighbouring states. Minnesota pays firefighters $41,990/yr — -23.9% vs Iowa.
Find Firefighter Jobs in Iowa
Live ListingsSearch current firefighter job vacancies in Iowa:
🔍 Firefighter jobs in Iowa — Indeed→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs in Iowa — ZipRecruiter→ 🔍 Firefighter jobs — Des Moines, IA→