Airline Pilot Salary in Iowa
Based on 100+ workers in Iowa
Median Annual Salary (IA)
$131,730
$63.332/hr
vs National Average
$214,428
-38.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$64K – $201K
100 employed in Iowa
Airline pilot salary in Iowa reflects the state's smaller aviation market compared to major hubs. The median salary for airline pilots in Iowa is $131,730 per year, based on data from approximately 100 employed pilots. However, this figure falls about 39% below the national average, indicating that Iowa positions offer lower compensation than pilots typically earn in other states.
Several factors influence airline pilot salary in Iowa, including the size and financial health of regional carriers operating in the state, seniority within an airline, and years of flying experience. The limited number of major airlines headquartered in Iowa means fewer high-paying positions compared to states with larger aviation infrastructure. Additionally, the cost of living in Iowa may partially offset the lower salaries, making positions more competitive for candidates prioritizing quality of life over maximum earnings.
Salary Distribution — Airline Pilot in Iowa
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $64,100 |
| 25th percentile | $86,570 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $131,730 |
| 75th percentile | $168,510 |
| 90th percentile | $201,080 |
Historical Salary Trend — Airline Pilot in Iowa vs National
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $131,350 |
| 2023 | $134,910 |
| 2024 | $130,980 |
| 2025 | $131,730 |
| Year | Iowa Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $131,350 | $150,453 |
| 2023 | $134,910 | $147,322 |
| 2024 | $130,980 | $151,018 |
| 2025 | $131,730 | $214,428 |
Airline Pilot Salary by Experience Level in Iowa
Airline Pilot Salary in Other States
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do airline pilots make in Iowa?
- The median salary for airline pilots in Iowa is $131,730 per year, or approximately $63 per hour. This is 38.6% below the national average for the position, making Iowa a lower-paying state for this profession.
What is the salary range for pilots working in Iowa?
- Airline pilot salaries in Iowa range from $64,100 at the lower end to $201,080 at the higher end. This wide range reflects differences in experience, seniority, and airline employer.
Is being an airline pilot in Iowa less lucrative than other states?
- Yes, airline pilots in Iowa earn 38.6% less than the national average. With a median salary of $131,730, Iowa significantly lags behind the national median for this profession.
How many airline pilots are employed in Iowa?
- There are approximately 100 airline pilots currently employed in Iowa, representing a relatively small workforce in this specialized field.