Ames vs Cedar Rapids: Flight Attendant Salary (2026)
Compare flight attendant salaries between Ames, IA and Cedar Rapids, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ames, IA | Cedar Rapids, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $58,072▲ | $58,028 |
| Hourly Rate | $27.92▲ | $27.90 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $33,681▲ | $33,656 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,617 | $45,901▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $74,331▲ | $74,275 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $90,010▲ | $89,943 |
| Total Employed | 12 | 22▲ |
Verdict
Ames, IA offers better overall compensation for flight attendants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Cedar Rapids.
The salary gap between Ames and Cedar Rapids is $44 (0.08%). Ames's median is -10.00% compared to the US national median of $64,527.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ames spans $56,329,Cedar Rapids spans $56,287. Ames 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, Ames ($64,239 effective) pays 0.08% more than Cedar Rapids ($64,190 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ames if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($58,072/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($90,010)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $64,239)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Cedar Rapids if…
- ✓Larger job market (22 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, flight attendant salaries in Ames grew 9.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.7% growth in Cedar Rapids over the same period.
Ames, IA
$52,176 (2024) → $57,219 (2025)
Cedar Rapids, IA
$52,137 (2024) → $57,176 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cedar Rapids, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Emily Johnson, AFA-CWA
Career Analyst
Emily Johnson has 10 years of experience as a flight attendant. She specializes in passenger safety and service. She has worked for major airlines in the United States.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 1.49% 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 Emily Johnson, AFA-CWA, a licensed flight attendant with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov