Cedar Rapids vs Iowa City: Electrician Salary (2026)
Compare electrician salaries between Cedar Rapids, IA and Iowa City, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cedar Rapids, IA | Iowa City, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $51,295 | $60,772▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $24.66 | $29.22▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,960▲ | $40,184 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,960 | $46,577▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $63,978 | $72,607▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $89,529▲ | $85,689 |
| Total Employed | 1,690▲ | 370 |
Verdict
Cedar Rapids and Iowa City are closely matched on overall electrician compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Cedar Rapids and Iowa City is $9,477 (18.48%). Iowa City's median is -5.82% compared to the US national median of $64,530.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cedar Rapids spans $48,569,Iowa City spans $45,505. Cedar Rapids has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Iowa City ($66,411 effective) pays 15.18% more than Cedar Rapids ($57,659 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cedar Rapids if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($89,529)
- ✓Larger job market (1,690 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Iowa City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($60,772/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $66,411)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, electrician salaries in Cedar Rapids grew -11.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 7.1% growth in Iowa City over the same period.
Cedar Rapids, IA
$56,820 (2019) → $50,230 (2025)
Iowa City, IA
$55,580 (2019) → $59,510 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cedar Rapids, IA
Iowa City, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays electricians more: Cedar Rapids or Iowa City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cedar Rapids and Iowa City?
Should I relocate from Cedar Rapids to Iowa City as a electrician?
What do entry-level electricians earn in Cedar Rapids vs Iowa City?
Written by Samuel Carter, Career Analyst
Career Analyst
Samuel Carter has over 10 years of experience as an electrician. His focus includes residential wiring and safety standards. He has worked in various construction firms.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.12% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Samuel Carter, Career Analyst, a licensed electrician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov