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Transportation · Iowa

How to Become a Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Iowa

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Iowa earn a median salary of $55,080/year, which is 4% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers takes home approximately $2,220/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$55K
Median salary in Iowa
-4%
vs. national average
4.9%
State income tax
37,430
Employed in Iowa

What a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$55,080
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.9% state tax)$3,632/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home38.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$55,080/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,220/mo

Becoming a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers 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 heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers 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 heavy and tractor-trailer truck driverss. 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 37,430 heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers. The highest concentrations are in Iowa City and Des Moines-West Des Moines.

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Iowa City$60K$28.66/hr2,450
Des Moines-West Des Moines$59K$28.31/hr8,580
Cedar Rapids$57K$27.38/hr3,560
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$55K$26.32/hr2,900
Dubuque$54K$26.11/hr1,460
Ames$54K$25.74/hr670
Waterloo-Cedar Falls$53K$25.4/hr1,670
Sioux City$50K$23.83/hr3,010

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$39K
25th percentile
$47K
Median (50th)
$55K
75th percentile
$63K
90th percentile (senior)
$79K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers make in Iowa?

The median heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers salary in Iowa is $55,080 per year ($26.48/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $57,440. Salaries range from $38,570 to $79,290.

What are the requirements to become a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Iowa?

Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers 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 heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $55,080, a heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Iowa would take home approximately $3,632/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 38.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Iowa are Iowa City ($59,600), Des Moines-West Des Moines ($58,880), Cedar Rapids ($56,950). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $55,080 salary, this means roughly $2,714/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.