Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver Salary in Iowa 2026

Last reviewed · Methodology

The median annual wage for a heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver in Iowa is $47,802 (mean $52,298). After federal, Iowa state, and FICA taxes, take-home pay is approximately $38,725/year ($3,227/month).

Median Annual

$47,802

in Iowa

Mean Annual

$52,298

vs. $59,430 national

Take-Home / yr

$38,725

after all 2026 taxes

Effective Tax

19.0%

federal + state + FICA

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Iowa vs. national heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver wages

MetricIowaNationalDifference
Median annual wage$47,802$54,320-12%
Mean annual wage$52,298$59,430-12%
Take-home (single filer)$38,725after all 2026 taxes

Iowa median derived from BLS OEWS May 2024 national figure adjusted by state wage pattern.

Take-home breakdown for $47,802 in Iowa

Annual deductions

Federal income tax
−$3,556
Iowa state income tax
−$1,864
FICA (SS + Medicare)
−$3,657
Total taxes
−$9,077

Your paycheck

Annual net
$38,725
Monthly net
$3,227
Bi-weekly net
$1,489
Hourly equivalent
$18.62/hr

Assumes single filer, no pre-tax deductions, standard deduction, 2026 IRS brackets. Use the full calculator for filing-status adjustments, 401(k) contributions, and other pre-tax items.

About this occupation

Drives a tractor-trailer combination or a truck with a capacity of at least 26,001 pounds to transport and deliver goods over long distances.

Outlook (2023-2033)

+4% (2023-2033, about average)

Typical Education

High school diploma + CDL (Commercial Driver's License)

BLS SOC Code

53-3032

Frequently asked questions

How much does a truck driver make in in Iowa in 2026?

The national median annual wage for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers was $54,320 in May 2024 (BLS OEWS). With 2026 tax rules, take-home pay runs roughly $43,000-$46,000 depending on state. Owner-operators and long-haul OTR drivers can earn $80K-$100K+.

Which states pay truck drivers the most?

Alaska ($70K median), New York ($65K), Massachusetts ($62K), Washington ($62K), and Illinois ($60K) lead the country. High pay tracks to remote routes, port cities, and high cost-of-living areas.

Is truck driving a good career in 2026?

Stable demand. BLS projects 4% growth through 2033 (about average), with persistent driver shortages supporting wages. The biggest disruption is autonomous trucking, which is still years away from broad adoption.

What is the take-home pay on a $47,802 heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver salary in Iowa?

On a $47,802 heavy and tractor-trailer truck driver salary in Iowa, take-home pay is approximately $38,725/year ($3,227/month, $1,489/bi-weekly). That accounts for $3,556 in federal income tax, 1,864 in Iowa state income tax, and $3,657 in FICA. The effective tax rate is 19.0%.

Highest-paying states for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers

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