Iowa Firefighter Salary (2026) – City Breakdown, Overtime & Real Take-Home
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Iowa firefighter compensation varies by department, schedule, overtime policy, and benefits. This guide breaks down what Iowa firefighters actually earn — from entry-level pay to top-step with overtime — and what shapes take-home pay across the state's major departments.
Compare all states:Firefighter Salary by State Hub · Calculator:Salary Comparison Tool
Iowa Firefighter Salary — Quick Numbers (2026)
Based on BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and department pay scales (BLS mean: $52,280):
| Level | Annual Base Pay |
|---|---|
| Entry-level (probation / step 1) | $40,000–$52,000 |
| Mid-career (5–10 years) | $54,000–$68,000 |
| Top-step Firefighter | $62,000–$78,000 |
| With overtime (realistic) | $72,000–$92,000 |
| Engineer / Driver-Operator | $68,000–$84,000 |
| Captain | $80,000–$100,000 |
Source: BLS OES May 2023, department HR postings, union contracts. Numbers reflect base pay; total compensation with OT and benefits is higher.
City-by-City Breakdown
| Department | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Des Moines Fire Department | $50,000–$80,000 | Largest department in Iowa. Capital city; best OT and promotional opportunities in the state. |
| Cedar Rapids Fire Department | $46,000–$74,000 | Second largest city; solid compensation for the region. |
| Davenport Fire Department | $44,000–$70,000 | Quad Cities metro; Illinois proximity influences wages slightly upward. |
| Sioux City Fire Rescue | $42,000–$66,000 | Western Iowa; smaller department, stable employment. |
Overtime and Premium Pay
Des Moines has the most consistent OT in Iowa. Other departments have limited overtime. Tornado season and flooding events can create demand spikes.
Use the Salary Comparison Tool to model different overtime assumptions before comparing departments.
Retirement and Pension
Municipal Fire and Police Retirement System of Iowa (MFPRSI). Defined-benefit plan. Firefighter contributions approximately 9.35% of gross pay. Strong long-term benefit.
Cost of Living — What Your Salary Actually Buys
Iowa is consistently one of the most affordable states in the country. Housing, groceries, and utilities are well below the national average. A $62,000 salary in Des Moines provides strong purchasing power.
IA Firefighter Career Outlook
Iowa pay is modest but cost of living is very favorable. MFPRSI pension is solid. A good option for those who prioritize quality of life over maximum salary.
How to Compare Two Iowa Departments
- Match the same rank and step (entry vs. 5-year vs. top step).
- Confirm the schedule type and how overtime is calculated under your contract.
- Get the actual pension contribution rate — not just the benefit formula.
- Ask for healthcare premium costs for your coverage tier.
- Subtract deductions, then compare take-home against housing costs in that specific city.
- Add conservative overtime — use low-end estimates, not maximum scenarios.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average firefighter salary in Iowa?
The BLS mean wage for firefighters in Iowa is $52,280. Career firefighters typically earn $54,000–$68,000 in base pay depending on rank, step, and department. With realistic overtime, total compensation ranges from $72,000–$92,000.
Do Iowa firefighters get a pension?
Municipal Fire and Police Retirement System of Iowa (MFPRSI). Defined-benefit plan. Firefighter contributions approximately 9.35% of gross pay. Strong long-term benefit.
Is Iowa a good state for a firefighter career?
Iowa pay is modest but cost of living is very favorable. MFPRSI pension is solid. A good option for those who prioritize quality of life over maximum salary.
Interested in working as a firefighter in Iowa? See becoming a firefighter guide — requirements, CPAT, written exam, and academy explained step by step.
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