Locomotive Engineer Salary in Iowa (2026)
Iowa · 14.0% below national average · Medium Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines | $60,151 | -12.0% | Medium |
Iowa is home to a moderate job market for Locomotive Engineers. The state's key industries — Agriculture, Manufacturing, Finance — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $68,353 per year, Iowa's Locomotive Engineer salaries are 14.0% lower than the national average.
The cost of living in Iowa (index: 0.86) makes salaries stretch further than in higher-cost states. Entry-level professionals in Iowa can expect to earn $45,916–$56,614, while experienced Locomotive Engineers can command $80,685–$88,994.
Looking ahead, the Locomotive Engineer profession in Iowa is projected to grow at 2.0% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Agriculture continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
-
What is the average Locomotive Engineer salary in Iowa?The average Locomotive Engineer salary in Iowa is $68,353 per year in 2026, which is 14.0% below the national average of $79,480.
-
What city in Iowa pays Locomotive Engineers the most?Major metro areas typically pay Locomotive Engineers the highest wages in Iowa due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
-
Is Iowa a good state for Locomotive Engineers?Iowa has a moderate job market with major industries in Agriculture, Manufacturing, Finance. Opportunities exist in for Locomotive Engineer employment.
-
How does Iowa Locomotive Engineer salary compare to the US average?At $68,353/year, Iowa Locomotive Engineer salaries are 14.0% lower than the national average of $79,480/year.