2026 Per Diem Calculator for Iowa
When traveling for business in Iowa, here are the per diem rates you’re allowed for hotels, meals, and incidentals.
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Per Diem Rates for Lodging in Iowa
The General Services Administration set the per diem rates on a monthly basis for all destinations in Iowa. Here are the per diem rates that apply in Iowa when you travel there for business.
City | County | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard Rate | Applies for all locations without specified rates | $110 | $110 | $110 | $110 | $110 | $110 | $110 | $110 | $110 | $110 | $110 | $110 |
Dallas | Dallas | $115 | $115 | $115 | $115 | $115 | $115 | $115 | $115 | $115 | $115 | $115 | $115 |
Des Moines | Polk | $121 | $121 | $121 | $121 | $121 | $121 | $121 | $121 | $121 | $121 | $121 | $121 |
Per Diem Rates for Meals and Incidentals in Iowa
City | County | Lodging | Meals & Incidentals rate | Trip totals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Standard Rate | Applies for all locations without specified rates | $110 | $73 | $183 |
Dallas | Dallas | $115 | $85 | $200 |
Des Moines | Polk | $121 | $85 | $206 |
Frequently visited states for business
Planning a business trip to Iowa
Per diem rates in Iowa can differ by destination and, in some markets, by month. Before booking, compare the city rate in this calculator with your company’s corporate travel policy—including any hotel cap, booking-channel rule, or approval requirement.
Where business travelers stay in Iowa
For a trip involving Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Iowa City, travelers building an itinerary around a venue or arrival point can compare hotels near Iowa Events Center with the per-diem rate for that market. Location, transfer time, and an early departure can matter as much as the nightly price.
Conferences, meetings, and company offsites
When an agenda combines client meetings, a conference, or an offsite in Iowa, choose the rate for the actual overnight location rather than a nearby market. Confirm the venue, airport, and hotel plan before the trip so attendees are working from the same assumptions.
Using per diem and documenting expenses
Per diem is an allowance framework, not a substitute for an employer’s rules. Treat each qualifying business expense according to your policy, retain supporting documentation when required, and submit an expense report with the business purpose and trip details your organization requests.
Top Industries:
- Agriculture: Major producer of corn, soybeans, and livestock.
- Manufacturing: Includes machinery, electronics, and food products.
- Healthcare: Includes major medical centers and healthcare services.
- Finance: Includes banking and financial services, particularly in Des Moines.
- Technology: Growing tech sector with a focus on software and data centers.
- Education: Home to universities like the University of Iowa and Iowa State University.
- Retail: Includes national and local retailers with a strong presence in urban areas.
- Energy: Includes traditional and renewable energy sources, with a focus on wind energy.
- Tourism: Attractions include natural parks, historical sites, and cultural events.
- Transportation and Logistics: Includes major railroads and logistics companies.
Some of the Biggest Companies:
- John Deere (Moline): Manufacturer of agricultural and construction equipment.
- Principal Financial Group (Des Moines): Provides financial services and insurance.
- Hawkeye Hotels (Coralville): Operates hotels and hospitality services.
- The Weitz Company (Des Moines): Specializes in construction and project management.
