Skip to content
AffordMap
Food Service · Iowa

How to Become a Dishwashers in Iowa

Dishwashers in Iowa earn a median salary of $26,910/year, which is 20% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a dishwashers takes home approximately $463/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$27K
Median salary in Iowa
-20%
vs. national average
4.3%
State income tax
2,960
Employed in Iowa

What a dishwashers can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$26,910
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.3% state tax)$1,875/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home75.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$26,910/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$463/mo

Becoming a dishwashers in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Dishwashers 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 dishwashers 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 dishwasherss. 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 2,960 dishwashers. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Sioux City.

Dishwashers salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Des Moines-West Des Moines$31K$14.81/hr790
Sioux City$29K$14.11/hr120
Iowa City$29K$14.02/hr250
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$29K$14/hr400
Dubuque$28K$13.66/hr130
Ames$26K$12.57/hr100
Cedar Rapids$26K$12.43/hr320
Waterloo-Cedar Falls$26K$12.39/hr150

Dishwashers salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$18K
25th percentile
$21K
Median (50th)
$27K
75th percentile
$32K
90th percentile (senior)
$36K
View jobs for Dishwashers
Currently hiring in Iowa
View →
More openings for Dishwashers
Currently hiring in Iowa
View →
Find accredited trade programs
Apprenticeship and certification paths
View →
Full dishwashers salary breakdown in Iowa
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Iowa
After federal + 4.3% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Iowa cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Dishwashers careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a dishwashers make in Iowa?

The median dishwashers salary in Iowa is $26,910 per year ($12.94/hr). This is 20% below the national median of $33,670. Salaries range from $18,100 to $36,330.

What are the requirements to become a dishwashers in Iowa?

Dishwashers 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 dishwashers afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $26,910, a dishwashers in Iowa would take home approximately $1,875/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 75.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for dishwashers in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for dishwashers in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($30,810), Sioux City ($29,340), Iowa City ($29,170). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for dishwashers?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.3%. On a $26,910 salary, this means roughly $1,164/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.