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Arts & Media · Iowa

How to Become a Art Directors in Iowa

Art Directors in Iowa earn a median salary of $80,560/year, which is 27% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~5.2%. After taxes and rent, a art directors takes home approximately $3,662/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$81K
Median salary in Iowa
-27%
vs. national average
5.2%
State income tax
370
Employed in Iowa

What a art directors can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$80,560
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.2% state tax)$5,074/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home27.8% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$80,560/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,662/mo

Becoming a art directors in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Art Directors positions in Iowa typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many art directors positions in Iowa require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Iowa licensure or certification

Iowa may require specific licensing or professional certification for art directorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Iowa Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Iowa

Iowa employs 370 art directors. The highest concentrations are in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City.

Art Directors salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Cedar Rapids$103K$49.37/hr40
Iowa City$78K$37.27/hr30
Des Moines-West Des Moines$74K$35.6/hr190

Art Directors salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$51K
25th percentile
$54K
Median (50th)
$81K
75th percentile
$103K
90th percentile (senior)
$121K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a art directors make in Iowa?

The median art directors salary in Iowa is $80,560 per year ($38.73/hr). This is 27% below the national median of $111,040. Salaries range from $51,160 to $121,130.

What are the requirements to become a art directors in Iowa?

Art Directors positions in Iowa typically require Bachelor's degree. Iowa may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Iowa licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a art directors afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $80,560, a art directors in Iowa would take home approximately $5,074/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for art directors in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for art directors in Iowa are Cedar Rapids ($102,690), Iowa City ($77,520), Des Moines-West Des Moines ($74,040). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for art directors?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.2%. On a $80,560 salary, this means roughly $4,167/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.