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Transportation · Iowa

How to Become a Bus Drivers, School in Iowa

Bus Drivers, Schools in Iowa earn a median salary of $45,380/year, which is 4% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.8%. After taxes and rent, a bus drivers, school takes home approximately $1,616/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$45K
Median salary in Iowa
-4%
vs. national average
4.8%
State income tax
5,140
Employed in Iowa

What a bus drivers, school can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$45,380
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.8% state tax)$3,028/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home46.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$45,380/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,616/mo

Becoming a bus drivers, school in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Bus Drivers, School positions in Iowa typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many bus drivers, school 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 bus drivers, schools. 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 5,140 bus drivers, schools. The highest concentrations are in Ames and Iowa City.

Bus Drivers, School salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Ames$52K$25.01/hr210
Iowa City$49K$23.49/hr230
Waterloo-Cedar Falls$48K$23.31/hr150
Sioux City$48K$23.03/hr240
Cedar Rapids$47K$22.64/hr410
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$47K$22.49/hr570
Des Moines-West Des Moines$45K$21.82/hr890

Bus Drivers, School salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$22K
25th percentile
$39K
Median (50th)
$45K
75th percentile
$53K
90th percentile (senior)
$65K
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Bus Drivers, School careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a bus drivers, school make in Iowa?

The median bus drivers, school salary in Iowa is $45,380 per year ($21.82/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $47,040. Salaries range from $21,630 to $64,830.

What are the requirements to become a bus drivers, school in Iowa?

Bus Drivers, School positions in Iowa typically require No formal educational credential. Iowa may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Iowa licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a bus drivers, school afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $45,380, a bus drivers, school in Iowa would take home approximately $3,028/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 46.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for bus drivers, schools in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for bus drivers, schools in Iowa are Ames ($52,020), Iowa City ($48,860), Waterloo-Cedar Falls ($48,480). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for bus drivers, schools?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.8%. On a $45,380 salary, this means roughly $2,161/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.