Writer and Author Salary in Iowa
Based on 290+ workers in Iowa
Median Annual Salary (IA)
$61,010
$29.33/hr
vs National Average
$70,716
-13.7% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$48K – $89K
290 employed in Iowa
Writers and authors working in Iowa earn a median salary of $61,010 per year, according to current labor data. With approximately 290 workers employed in this field across the state, Iowa's writer and author salary reflects a competitive but modest compensation landscape. This figure falls 14% below the national average, indicating regional differences in earning potential for creative professionals.
Several factors influence writer and author salary in Iowa, including experience level, industry specialization, and employment type. Those working in publishing, advertising, or corporate communications may earn differently than freelance writers or academic authors. Additionally, geographic location within Iowa, educational credentials, and portfolio strength can significantly impact individual earning potential within the $48,260 to $88,560 salary range.
Salary Distribution — Writer and Author in Iowa
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $48,260 |
| 25th percentile | $50,280 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $61,010 |
| 75th percentile | $69,220 |
| 90th percentile | $88,560 |
Top-Paying Industries for Writer and Author (U.S.)
Which industries pay Writer and Authors the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Writer and Authors in Iowa tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | $131,800 | 40 |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $107,910 | 2K |
| Finance and Insurance | $95,260 | 1K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $84,620 | 2K |
| Administrative and Support Services | $84,040 | 2K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Writer and Author in Iowa vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Iowa) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $46,780 |
| 2023 | $54,110 |
| 2024 | $54,990 |
| 2025 | $61,010 |
| 2026 (projected) | $64,671 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Iowa Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $46,780 | $62,421 |
| 2023 | $54,110 | $65,436 |
| 2024 | $54,990 | $66,313 |
| 2025 | $61,010 | $70,716 |
| 2026 (projected) | $64,671 | $74,959 |
Writer and Author Salary by Experience Level in Iowa
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $50,280 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $61,010 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $69,220 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $88,560 |
Writer and Author Salary in Other States
Related Writer and Author Salaries in Iowa
How other high-demand occupations in Iowa compare to Writer and Author ($61,010 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Writer and Author | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Logistician in IA | $78,740 | +29.1% | $37.86/hr |
| Purchasing Agent in IA | $70,360 | +15.3% | $33.83/hr |
| Market Research Analyst in IA | $66,390 | +8.8% | $31.92/hr |
| Training and Development Specialist in IA | $66,110 | +8.4% | $31.78/hr |
| Public Relations Specialist in IA | $62,970 | +3.2% | $30.27/hr |
| Editor in IA | $57,200 | -6.2% | $27.50/hr |
| Real Estate Broker in IA | $50,140 | -17.8% | $24.11/hr |
| Mental Health Counselor in IA | $60,880 | -0.2% | $29.27/hr |
| Electrician in IA | $60,860 | -0.2% | $29.26/hr |
| Secondary School Teacher in IA | $61,200 | +0.3% | $29.42/hr |
| Elementary School Teacher in IA | $60,580 | -0.7% | $29.13/hr |
| Middle School Teacher in IA | $60,450 | -0.9% | $29.06/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do writers and authors make in Iowa?
- Writers and authors in Iowa earn a median salary of $61,010 per year, or $29 per hour. This is approximately 13.7% lower than the national average for this profession.
What is the salary range for writers and authors in Iowa?
- The salary range for writers and authors in Iowa spans from $48,260 at the lower end to $88,560 at the higher end, reflecting differences in experience and specialization.
How many writers and authors work in Iowa?
- There are approximately 290 writers and authors currently employed in Iowa, representing the total workforce in this field across the state.
Is writing a well-paying career in Iowa compared to the national average?
- Writing careers in Iowa pay 13.7% below the national average, with Iowa writers earning a median of $61,010 annually versus higher median salaries in other states.