How to Become a Food Servers, Nonrestaurant in Iowa
Food Servers, Nonrestaurants in Iowa earn a median salary of $29,270/year, which is 15% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a food servers, nonrestaurant takes home approximately $611/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a food servers, nonrestaurant can afford in Iowa
Becoming a food servers, nonrestaurant in Iowa
Meet education requirements
Food Servers, Nonrestaurant 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.
Gain required experience
Many food servers, nonrestaurant 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 food servers, nonrestaurants. 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 5,160 food servers, nonrestaurants. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Sioux City.
Food Servers, Nonrestaurant salary by metro area in Iowa
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines-West Des Moines | $34K | $16.21/hr | 1,150 |
| Sioux City | $32K | $15.16/hr | 200 |
| Davenport-Moline-Rock Island | $31K | $15.08/hr | 570 |
| Ames | $31K | $15.07/hr | 160 |
| Dubuque | $31K | $15.06/hr | 180 |
| Cedar Rapids | $29K | $14.16/hr | 490 |
| Iowa City | $29K | $14/hr | 230 |
| Waterloo-Cedar Falls | $28K | $13.33/hr | 290 |
Food Servers, Nonrestaurant salary range in Iowa
Food Servers, Nonrestaurant careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a food servers, nonrestaurant make in Iowa?▼
The median food servers, nonrestaurant salary in Iowa is $29,270 per year ($14.07/hr). This is 15% below the national median of $34,460. Salaries range from $26,220 to $36,280.
What are the requirements to become a food servers, nonrestaurant in Iowa?▼
Food Servers, Nonrestaurant 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 food servers, nonrestaurant afford to live in Iowa?▼
At the median salary of $29,270, a food servers, nonrestaurant in Iowa would take home approximately $2,023/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 69.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for food servers, nonrestaurants in Iowa?▼
The highest paying metro areas for food servers, nonrestaurants in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($33,710), Sioux City ($31,540), Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($31,370). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Iowa have state income tax for food servers, nonrestaurants?▼
Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $29,270 salary, this means roughly $1,278/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.