Laborers and Freight, Stock, and Material Movers, Hand Salary in Southeast Iowa

In Southeast Iowa, laborers and freight, stock, and material movers who perform hand tasks earn a median annual salary of $43,370, which translates to a median hourly wage of $20.85. This figure is notably higher than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $38,940 annually as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in May 2025. When considering local household income statistics, the earnings for these workers provide a significant contribution to family budgets, potentially exceeding the typical income for single-income households depending on other regional economic factors and living costs. The disparity between the median salary for this role and national figures underscores the relatively favorable compensation landscape for such laborers in Southeast Iowa.

Wage variation within this occupation is influenced by experience levels and job responsibilities. Entry-level workers in this field tend to earn closer to the 10th percentile of $30,470 annually, reflecting limited experience or specialized skill sets. Conversely, more seasoned and experienced laborers can command salaries around the 75th percentile, earning approximately $47,830 per year. The difference in earnings is primarily driven by factors such as tenure, proficiency with equipment, physical demands, and ability to handle complex tasks independently. Additionally, workers who possess additional skills or certifications may achieve wages near the 90th percentile of $50,250 annually, further illustrating the impact of experience and expertise on compensation within this sector.