Your Guide to Today’s Best-Paid Careers in Iowa
Are you thinking about shifting careers or entering a high-growth industry in Iowa? Whether you're finishing school, switching fields, or looking to boost your income, focusing on the highest paying jobs in Iowa is a great start.
The Hawkeye State has a strong, diverse economy. Sectors like healthcare, tech, engineering, and finance continue to post excellent salaries and job stability. Let's explore the top paying careers in Iowa right now to help you make informed decisions.
Top Industries with High Paying Jobs in Iowa
Several industries in Iowa consistently offer high wages due to demand, specialization, and required skills or education. Here’s where you’ll find the best-paying roles:
- Healthcare and Medical – Physicians, Surgeons, Dentists, and specialized nurses are in strong demand.
- Engineering and Tech – Software engineers, systems analysts, and mechanical engineers offer high income potential.
- Finance and Business – Financial managers, accountants, and executives enjoy solid salaries.
- Legal Professions – Lawyers and judges hold some of the most prestigious and highest paying roles.
- Aviation and Transportation – Commercial pilots and logistics managers see top-tier earnings.
These sectors offer not only current high salaries but long-term career security, making them excellent paths for career growth in Iowa.
What Are the Highest Paying Jobs in Iowa Right Now?
Below are some of the top earning jobs based on current labor market data and salary reports.
- Physicians and Surgeons – Average salary: $235,000+ per year
- Dentists – Earnings range: $185,000 – $220,000 annually
- Pharmacists – Median income: $125,000 – $135,000/year
- Corporate Executives (CEOs, CFOs) – Annual salary: $180,000+
- Architectural and Engineering Managers – Avg pay: $140,000 per year
- IT Managers and Software Architects – $120,000 – $160,000/year
- Lawyers – Salary: $115,000 – $150,000/year in mid-sized firms or specialty areas
- Petroleum Engineers – Can earn up to $130,000/year, depending on projects
- Commercial Pilots – Average salary: $110,000 – $140,000 depending on experience and routes
Many of these jobs require advanced education or significant experience, but the investment often leads to substantial financial returns and job satisfaction.
High Paying Skilled Trade Jobs in Iowa Without a College Degree
College isn’t the only route to a high-paying job. Iowa offers lucrative skilled trade careers for those who prefer practical training or apprenticeships.
- Elevator Installers and Repairers – Average pay: $80,000/year
- Power Plant Operators – $70,000 – $90,000 annually
- Radiation Therapists – $85,000+/year with certification
- Wind Turbine Technicians – Due to Iowa’s wind energy sector, average salary is $60,000 – $75,000
- Construction Managers – With experience: $90,000+
These occupations offer strong wages, growing demand, and the satisfaction of building critical infrastructure or technologies.
Which Degrees Lead to the Highest-Paying Careers in Iowa?
If you’re pursuing a degree, focusing on majors that open doors to top-paying jobs is essential. Here are some of the most valuable degree fields in Iowa’s job market:
- Medicine – Leads to roles like Physician, Surgeon, or Anesthesiologist
- Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil) – For various high-tech and management roles
- Computer Science – Enables careers in data analysis, app development, and cybersecurity
- Finance and Accounting – Critical for leadership roles in business and investment
- Pharmacy and Nursing – In-demand healthcare professions with competitive salaries
Many of these roles are part of essential industries and are projected to grow over the next decade.
What Is the Job Outlook for High Paying Careers in Iowa?
Iowa’s economy is stable and growing in several key areas. Demand will continue to rise in:
- Healthcare and elder care
- Renewable energy and environmental services
- Information security and software development
- Advanced manufacturing
- Educational administration
With technology and innovation on the rise, Iowa technical jobs and management positions are solid long-term choices. Rural areas also present opportunity in healthcare, logistics, and skilled trades.
How to Prepare for a High-Income Career in Iowa
To land a top-paying job in Iowa, you need more than just ambition. Consider these steps:
- Get the right education or certification
- Improve your resume with internships or real experience
- Build a professional network in Iowa's thriving industries
- Work on communication and leadership skills
- Stay current with industry trends and technologies
Career services, online platforms, and local job fairs can help you find high-paying openings across the state.
FAQs About Top Paying Jobs in the Iowa Job Market
What is the best career to make money in Iowa?
Healthcare jobs like Surgeons and Physicians top the charts for highest salaries in Iowa. Executive business roles and tech-related careers also pay very well.
What jobs pay over $100k without a degree in Iowa?
Roles like commercial pilots, power plant operators, and some construction managers can offer six-figure salaries with experience and certifications instead of a traditional degree.
Is tech a good field in Iowa for high salaries?
Yes. Careers in software development, cybersecurity, and data analysis are rapidly growing and offer high-paying opportunities in both urban and rural areas.
Can I find remote high-paying jobs in Iowa?
Many companies now offer remote roles in tech, finance, and digital marketing that pay highly and allow living in lower-cost parts of Iowa. Look for remote software jobs and telehealth positions.
Final Thoughts: Iowa’s Opportunities for High-Earning Careers
With its strong agriculture base, expanding technology adoption, and high healthcare demand, Iowa is full of high-income career paths. Whether you aim to become a surgeon, IT manager, or skilled technician, the opportunities are growing across sectors.
Start by identifying your strengths, researching growing industries, and preparing for tomorrow’s most rewarding roles. Success in Iowa’s job market is absolutely within reach — and now is a great time to take your next step.
