How to Become a Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in Iowa
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in Iowa earn a median salary of $55,910/year, which is 14% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors takes home approximately $2,271/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors can afford in Iowa
Becoming a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Iowa
Meet education requirements
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors positions in Iowa typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors 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.
Obtain Iowa licensure or certification
Iowa may require specific licensing or professional certification for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Iowa Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Iowa
Iowa employs 3,580 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors. The highest concentrations are in Iowa City and Cedar Rapids.
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary by metro area in Iowa
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa City | $70K | $33.48/hr | 430 |
| Cedar Rapids | $64K | $30.59/hr | 360 |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines | $60K | $28.85/hr | 690 |
| Davenport-Moline-Rock Island | $58K | $27.84/hr | 350 |
| Waterloo-Cedar Falls | $56K | $26.82/hr | 160 |
| Sioux City | $54K | $25.79/hr | 140 |
| Ames | $49K | $23.35/hr | 400 |
| Dubuque | $46K | $22.09/hr | 140 |
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary range in Iowa
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors make in Iowa?▼
The median educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors salary in Iowa is $55,910 per year ($26.88/hr). This is 14% below the national median of $65,140. Salaries range from $41,000 to $79,410.
What are the requirements to become a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Iowa?▼
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors 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 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors afford to live in Iowa?▼
At the median salary of $55,910, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Iowa would take home approximately $3,683/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 38.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Iowa?▼
The highest paying metro areas for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Iowa are Iowa City ($69,640), Cedar Rapids ($63,630), Des Moines-West Des Moines ($60,010). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Iowa have state income tax for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors?▼
Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $55,910 salary, this means roughly $2,762/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.