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Community & Social · Iowa

How to Become a Clergy in Iowa

Clergies in Iowa earn a median salary of $59,270/year, which is 3% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a clergy takes home approximately $2,480/month. Most positions require Master's degree.

$59K
Median salary in Iowa
-3%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
360
Employed in Iowa

What a clergy can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$59,270
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$3,892/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home36.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$59,270/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,480/mo

Becoming a clergy in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

Many clergy 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 clergys. 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 360 clergies. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Cedar Rapids.

Clergy salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Des Moines-West Des Moines$61K$29.54/hr90
Cedar Rapids$58K$27.91/hr50
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$58K$27.81/hr70

Clergy salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$48K
25th percentile
$52K
Median (50th)
$59K
75th percentile
$64K
90th percentile (senior)
$71K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a clergy make in Iowa?

The median clergy salary in Iowa is $59,270 per year ($28.5/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $60,820. Salaries range from $47,980 to $71,330.

What are the requirements to become a clergy in Iowa?

Clergy positions in Iowa typically require Master'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 clergy afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $59,270, a clergy in Iowa would take home approximately $3,892/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for clergies in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for clergies in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($61,440), Cedar Rapids ($58,060), Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($57,850). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for clergies?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $59,270 salary, this means roughly $2,953/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.