Average Commercial Pilots Salary in Iowa
Commercial Pilots in Iowa can expect an average annual salary of $118,860. This figure is notably below the national average of $144,150, reflecting regional economic factors and potentially a different demand structure within the state. The specific economic landscape and operational needs of aviation businesses in Iowa contribute to this localized pay scale.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $118,860 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 16.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $178,260.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 440 Commercial Pilots, Iowa presents a modest employment base for this profession. The Location Quotient of 0.85 suggests that the concentration of these jobs in Iowa is slightly below the national average, indicating a stable but not exceptionally high demand relative to other states. The number of jobs per 1,000 workers, at 0.284, further reinforces the picture of a specialized but consistently present career field within the state.
Salary Overview
The average Commercial Pilots in Iowa earns-17.5%below the national average.
$57.1
$2,286
$9,905
Commercial Pilots Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Iowa Commercial Pilots isn't provided, it's reasonable to assume a general upward trend in salaries over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. Economic recovery, increased air travel demand, and evolving industry standards typically drive salary growth for skilled aviation professionals. This suggests that the current average salary may represent an increase from previous years, with potential for continued growth.
Commercial Pilots Salary Distribution in Iowa
Salary progression for Commercial Pilots in Iowa, as elsewhere, is strongly tied to experience and skill development. Entry-level positions typically command lower salaries, while seasoned pilots with extensive flight hours, advanced certifications, and leadership roles can earn significantly more. The percentile gaps in salary distribution, though not detailed here, would signify the substantial earning potential available to senior pilots who have mastered their craft and accumulated valuable experience.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $54,310 | $26.1 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $89,145 | $42.9 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $101,040 | $48.6 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $148,575 | $71.4 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $178,260 | $85.7 |
Detailed Commercial Pilots Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$118,860
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$132,508
Adjusted for COL (89.7)
The average annual salary of $118,860 for Commercial Pilots in Iowa is significantly enhanced by the state's lower cost of living. With a Cost of Living Index of 89.7, Iowa is approximately 10.3% more affordable than the national average. This means that the nominal salary of $118,860 offers greater purchasing power and a higher real income for pilots residing in Iowa compared to those in higher-cost regions, making it an attractive financial proposition.
Job Market Context
440
Total Jobs
0.284
Per 1K Jobs
0.85
Location Quotient
Iowa has 0.85x the national average concentration of Commercial Pilots jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
The Location Quotient of 0.85 indicates that Commercial Pilots are slightly less concentrated in Iowa compared to the national average. This suggests that while the profession is present and stable, the market may not be saturated, potentially offering good opportunities for qualified individuals. It implies a balanced job market where demand exists, but the supply of pilots is relatively in line with or slightly below the national proportion.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Commercial Pilots
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA Commercial Pilots Salary | $147,220↑ 24% | 37 mi |
| Cedar Rapids, IA Commercial Pilots Salary | $125,400↑ 6% | 79 mi |
Comparing salaries near Iowa
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Commercial Pilots make in Iowa?
The median annual salary for a Commercial Pilots in Iowa is $118,860. This typically ranges from $54,310 for entry-level positions to $178,260 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Iowa is 17.5% lower than the national median of $144,150.
Is Iowa a lucrative place for Commercial Pilots?
Yes, with a caveat regarding the national average.While the average salary is below the national benchmark, Iowa's lower cost of living significantly boosts the purchasing power of the $118,860 average salary, making it financially advantageous.
Is Iowa a good place to live for Commercial Pilots?
With a Cost of Living Index of 89.7 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near Iowa?
Some top paying nearby cities include Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA ($147,220) and Cedar Rapids, IA.
How does Iowa's cost of living affect pilot salaries?
Iowa's cost of living index of 89.7 means that $118,860 in Iowa has more buying power than the same amount in a higher-cost state, effectively increasing the real value of the salary.
Is the job market for Commercial Pilots strong in Iowa?
The market is stable, with a workforce of 440 and a location quotient slightly below the national average, suggesting consistent demand without extreme competition.
What is the typical career path for a Commercial Pilot in Iowa?
Career progression typically involves gaining flight hours and certifications, leading to higher-paying roles. Experience is the primary driver for salary increases from entry-level to senior positions.
How does Iowa's Commercial Pilot salary compare to other states?
The average salary of $118,860 is lower than the national average of $144,150, indicating that pilots in Iowa may earn less in nominal terms but benefit from a more affordable living environment.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 440 employees in the Iowa area with a job density of 0.284 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Commercial Pilots • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Iowa