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How to Become a Commercial and Industrial Designers in Iowa

Commercial and Industrial Designers in Iowa earn a median salary of $69,210/year, which is 13% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~5.1%. After taxes and rent, a commercial and industrial designers takes home approximately $3,051/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$69K
Median salary in Iowa
-13%
vs. national average
5.1%
State income tax
540
Employed in Iowa

What a commercial and industrial designers can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$69,210
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.1% state tax)$4,463/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home31.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$69,210/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,051/mo

Becoming a commercial and industrial designers in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Commercial and Industrial Designers 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 commercial and industrial designers 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 commercial and industrial designerss. 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 540 commercial and industrial designers. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Davenport-Moline-Rock Island.

Commercial and Industrial Designers salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Des Moines-West Des Moines$78K$37.48/hr100
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$73K$35.32/hr60
Dubuque$62K$29.76/hr40
Cedar Rapids$62K$29.76/hr60

Commercial and Industrial Designers salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$49K
25th percentile
$58K
Median (50th)
$69K
75th percentile
$85K
90th percentile (senior)
$98K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a commercial and industrial designers make in Iowa?

The median commercial and industrial designers salary in Iowa is $69,210 per year ($33.27/hr). This is 13% below the national median of $79,450. Salaries range from $49,160 to $97,870.

What are the requirements to become a commercial and industrial designers in Iowa?

Commercial and Industrial Designers 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 commercial and industrial designers afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $69,210, a commercial and industrial designers in Iowa would take home approximately $4,463/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 31.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for commercial and industrial designers in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for commercial and industrial designers in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($77,960), Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($73,470), Dubuque ($61,910). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for commercial and industrial designers?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.1%. On a $69,210 salary, this means roughly $3,520/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.