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Transportation · Iowa

How to Become a Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity in Iowa

Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercities in Iowa earn a median salary of $40,110/year, which is 30% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.6%. After taxes and rent, a bus drivers, transit and intercity takes home approximately $1,288/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$40K
Median salary in Iowa
-30%
vs. national average
4.6%
State income tax
1,970
Employed in Iowa

What a bus drivers, transit and intercity can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$40,110
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.6% state tax)$2,700/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home52.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$40,110/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,288/mo

Becoming a bus drivers, transit and intercity in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity 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, transit and intercity 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, transit and intercitys. 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 1,970 bus drivers, transit and intercities. The highest concentrations are in Davenport-Moline-Rock Island and Iowa City.

Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$60K$29.03/hr90
Iowa City$49K$23.41/hr
Sioux City$47K$22.71/hr60
Des Moines-West Des Moines$45K$21.52/hr310
Cedar Rapids$44K$21.08/hr140

Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$31K
25th percentile
$36K
Median (50th)
$40K
75th percentile
$49K
90th percentile (senior)
$60K
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Full bus drivers, transit and intercity salary breakdown in Iowa
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After federal + 4.6% state tax
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Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a bus drivers, transit and intercity make in Iowa?

The median bus drivers, transit and intercity salary in Iowa is $40,110 per year ($19.28/hr). This is 30% below the national median of $57,440. Salaries range from $31,230 to $59,520.

What are the requirements to become a bus drivers, transit and intercity in Iowa?

Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity 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, transit and intercity afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $40,110, a bus drivers, transit and intercity in Iowa would take home approximately $2,700/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 52.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for bus drivers, transit and intercities in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for bus drivers, transit and intercities in Iowa are Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($60,380), Iowa City ($48,700), Sioux City ($47,240). 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, transit and intercities?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.6%. On a $40,110 salary, this means roughly $1,861/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.