Salaries in Cedar Rapids, IA

Updated on May 09, 2025
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Salary

What is the average salary in Cedar Rapids, IA?

The average salary in Cedar Rapids, IA is $65,311 per year.

Job seekers in Cedar Rapids, IA, can find a variety of salary opportunities. The average salary in the city is around $65,311. This figure provides a good benchmark for understanding the earning potential in different sectors. Salaries range widely, from lower-paying jobs to higher-paying positions.


Here are some average salaries for different job categories in Cedar Rapids:

  • Retail: $25,150
  • Administrative Support: $39,864
  • Manufacturing: $54,577
  • Healthcare: $69,291
  • Engineering: $84,005
  • IT: $98,718
  • Finance: $113,432
  • Education: $128,145
  • Management: $142,859
  • Sales: $157,573
  • Law: $172,286
  • Executive: $187,000

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What are the best paying jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA?

Cedar Rapids offers a variety of high-paying job opportunities for skilled professionals. Among the top-paying roles are Nurse Practitioners, Electrical Engineers, and Traveling Nurses. These positions provide competitive salaries and the chance to work in a growing community. Nurse Practitioners can earn over $145,000 annually, while Electrical Engineers and Traveling Nurses both make around $115,000 per year. These jobs require specialized skills and education, but they offer excellent rewards. Job seekers with the right qualifications can find rewarding careers in Cedar Rapids.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Cedar Rapids, IA, highlighting Nurse Practitioner with the highest at $145,959 and Construction Project Manager with the lowest at $93,684.
  1. Nurse Practitioner
    Average Salary: $145,959
    This role involves providing primary and specialty care. It requires collaboration with doctors and other healthcare professionals. Many healthcare facilities in Cedar Rapids offer this opportunity.
    Find Nurse Practitioner jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  2. Electrical Engineer
    Average Salary: $118,093
    This position involves designing and developing electrical systems. It requires a strong understanding of electrical theory and practical application. Companies in Cedar Rapids seek skilled engineers for various projects.
    Find Electrical Engineer jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  3. Traveling Nurse
    Average Salary: $115,408
    Traveling nurses work in different locations, providing essential care. This role offers flexibility and the chance to experience diverse healthcare settings. Agencies in Cedar Rapids often have openings for traveling nurses.
    Find Traveling Nurse jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  4. Radiologic Technologist
    Average Salary: $115,222
    This role involves operating imaging equipment to assist in diagnosis. It requires precision and attention to detail. Many hospitals and clinics in Cedar Rapids need skilled radiologic technologists.
    Find Radiologic Technologist jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  5. Respiratory Therapist
    Average Salary: $110,073
    This position involves treating patients with breathing or cardiopulmonary disorders. It requires a deep understanding of respiratory care. Cedar Rapids has several healthcare facilities that offer this career path.
    Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  6. Systems Engineer
    Average Salary: $108,031
    Systems engineers design and implement IT systems. They work closely with other IT professionals to ensure systems run smoothly. Companies in Cedar Rapids value skilled systems engineers for their projects.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  7. Software Engineer
    Average Salary: $106,066
    This role involves designing, developing, and testing software applications. It requires strong programming skills and problem-solving abilities. Many tech companies in Cedar Rapids offer opportunities for software engineers.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  8. Technical Project Lead
    Average Salary: $97,440
    This position involves managing technical projects from start to finish. It requires leadership skills and technical expertise. Companies in Cedar Rapids often seek experienced project leads for their teams.
    Find Technical Project Lead jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  9. Project Engineer
    Average Salary: $93,905
    Project engineers oversee engineering projects, ensuring they meet specifications and deadlines. They coordinate with various teams to achieve project goals. Cedar Rapids has many engineering firms that need project engineers.
    Find Project Engineer jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  10. Construction Project Manager
    Average Salary: $93,684
    This role involves managing construction projects, from planning to completion. It requires strong organizational and leadership skills. Many construction companies in Cedar Rapids offer this career path.
    Find Construction Project Manager jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA

What are the best paying jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA without a degree?

Cedar Rapids offers several high-paying jobs that do not require a college degree. Public Works Operators earn around $52,904 annually, while Restaurant Managers make about $52,035. These roles provide good pay and valuable experience. Concrete Laborers, Painter Helpers, and Landscapers also offer competitive salaries. Concrete Laborers earn approximately $47,564, Painter Helpers about $40,000, and Landscapers around $36,000. These jobs allow for steady income and the opportunity to gain skills in various trades.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Cedar Rapids, IA without a degree, highlighting Public Works Operator with the highest at $52,904 and Server with the lowest at $32,896.
  1. Public Works Operator
    Average Salary: $52,904
    Public works operators manage city infrastructure. They work on roads, water systems, and other public utilities. Companies like the city government and private contractors offer these jobs.
    Find Public Works Operator jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  2. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $52,035
    Restaurant managers oversee daily operations. They handle staff, customer service, and inventory. They work for local eateries and chains. This role is ideal for those who enjoy a fast-paced environment.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  3. Concrete Laborer
    Average Salary: $47,564
    Concrete laborers mix and pour concrete. They work on construction sites for homes and buildings. Companies in the construction industry offer these jobs. It’s a hands-on role that requires physical strength.
    Find Concrete Laborer jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  4. Painter Helper
    Average Salary: $40,000
    Painter helpers assist professional painters. They prepare surfaces and clean up. They work for painting companies and contractors. This job is great for those who enjoy working with their hands.
    Find Painter Helper jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  5. Landscaper
    Average Salary: $36,852
    Landscapers maintain outdoor spaces. They plant flowers, trim trees, and mow lawns. They work for landscaping companies and homeowners. This job is perfect for those who love being outdoors.
    Find Landscaper jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  6. Lawn Care Technician
    Average Salary: $36,794
    Lawn care technicians mow, edge, and water lawns. They work for landscaping companies and homeowners. This job is ideal for those who enjoy working outdoors and maintaining green spaces.
    Find Lawn Care Technician jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  7. Meat Cutter
    Average Salary: $36,559
    Meat cutters slice and package meat. They work in grocery stores and butcher shops. This job requires attention to detail and the ability to work with meat products.
    Find Meat Cutter jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  8. Floor Tech
    Average Salary: $36,368
    Floor techs install and repair flooring. They work in homes and businesses. This job is great for those who enjoy working with their hands and installing materials.
    Find Floor Tech jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  9. Groundskeeper
    Average Salary: $35,060
    Groundskeepers maintain outdoor areas. They mow lawns, trim trees, and clean up debris. They work for schools, parks, and private properties. This job is ideal for those who enjoy working outdoors.
    Find Groundskeeper jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  10. Server
    Average Salary: $32,896
    Servers take food orders and serve meals. They work in restaurants and cafes. This job requires good communication skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
    Find Server jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Cedar Rapids, IA?

Job seekers in Cedar Rapids, IA, have several companies to consider for top-paying positions. Collins Aerospace leads the way with an average salary of $126,956. BAE Systems USA follows closely with an average salary of $117,966. These companies offer competitive salaries, making them attractive options for those seeking higher pay. Other notable companies in Cedar Rapids include Skyworks Solutions, Eastern Iowa Health Center, and BAE Systems. Skyworks Solutions offers an average salary of $112,020, while Eastern Iowa Health Center provides $107,913. BAE Systems pays an average of $103,791. These companies also provide good compensation packages, making them good choices for job seekers.
Graph displaying company salaries in Cedar Rapids, IA, highlighting Collins Aerospace with the highest at $126,956 and AEGON with the lowest at $87,679.
  1. Collins Aerospace
    Average Salary: $126,956
    Collins Aerospace is a global leader in aerospace and defense technology. They offer innovative solutions for aircraft systems and components.


  2. BAE Systems USA
    Average Salary: $117,966
    BAE Systems USA is a major defense and aerospace company. They provide advanced technology solutions for military and commercial markets.


  3. Skyworks Solutions
    Average Salary: $112,020
    Skyworks Solutions is a semiconductor company. They specialize in designing and manufacturing high-performance analog and mixed-signal chips.


  4. Eastern Iowa Health Center
    Average Salary: $107,913
    Eastern Iowa Health Center is a leading healthcare provider. They offer a wide range of medical services to the community.


  5. BAE Systems
    Average Salary: $103,791
    BAE Systems is a global defense and aerospace company. They focus on delivering cutting-edge solutions for military and commercial applications.


  6. FUSION Medical Staffing
    Average Salary: $103,576
    FUSION Medical Staffing is a healthcare staffing agency. They connect healthcare professionals with temporary and permanent job opportunities.


  7. KJ MEDIA
    Average Salary: $101,730
    KJ MEDIA is a media production company. They create engaging content for various platforms, including television, radio, and digital media.


  8. The Weitz Company / Contrack Watts, Inc.
    Average Salary: $97,742
    The Weitz Company / Contrack Watts, Inc. is a construction management firm. They provide services for commercial and residential projects.


  9. Schneider Electric
    Average Salary: $89,673
    Schneider Electric is a global leader in energy management. They offer solutions for energy efficiency and automation.


  10. AEGON
    Average Salary: $87,679
    AEGON is a financial services company. They provide insurance, investment, and retirement solutions to individuals and businesses.

How does the cost of living in Cedar Rapids, IA compare to the national average?

Cedar Rapids, IA, offers a cost of living that is slightly below the nationwide average. The overall cost of living index for Cedar Rapids stands at 93, which is 7% lower than the national average of 100. This makes Cedar Rapids a more affordable option for housing, groceries, and utilities, while still maintaining competitive rates in transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses. For job seekers, this means Cedar Rapids can provide a more cost-effective lifestyle without sacrificing essential services. The lower cost of living can be particularly beneficial for those looking to maximize their savings or increase their disposable income.
Cost of living comparison graph for Cedar Rapids, IA vs. Nationwide: housing 11% lower, groceries 7% lower, utilities 2% lower, transportation 5% lower, healthcare 5% lower, miscellaneous 10% lower.

Cedar Rapids, IA, offers a cost of living that is slightly below the nationwide average. The housing index stands at 89, which means that housing costs are 11% lower than the national average. This can be a significant advantage for job seekers looking to save on housing expenses. Additionally, groceries in Cedar Rapids are priced at 93, which is 7% lower than the national average. This makes everyday essentials more affordable for residents.


Utilities in Cedar Rapids are priced at 98, which is 2% higher than the national average. While this is a minor increase, it is still worth considering for those planning to move. Transportation costs are at 95, which is the same as the national average. This means that commuting and other transportation-related expenses will not differ significantly from the national norm. Healthcare costs in Cedar Rapids are also at 95, aligning with the national average. This ensures that medical expenses remain consistent with what one might expect across the country. Overall, Cedar Rapids provides a cost of living that is generally favorable, with some areas offering savings and others being slightly higher.

There are 2,665 job openings in Cedar Rapids, IA, today!

Take a deeper dive into the job market in Cedar Rapids, IA

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City
Overview
Cedar Rapids, IA
2,665 Job Openings