How to Become a Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop in Iowa
Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shops in Iowa earn a median salary of $28,430/year, which is 6% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop takes home approximately $558/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop can afford in Iowa
Becoming a hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop in Iowa
Meet education requirements
Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop 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 hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop 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 hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shops. 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 3,410 hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shops. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Davenport-Moline-Rock Island.
Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop salary by metro area in Iowa
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines-West Des Moines | $30K | $14.24/hr | 1,070 |
| Davenport-Moline-Rock Island | $29K | $14/hr | 400 |
| Dubuque | $28K | $13.68/hr | 110 |
| Waterloo-Cedar Falls | $28K | $13.38/hr | 200 |
| Sioux City | $28K | $13.35/hr | 180 |
| Iowa City | $28K | $13.34/hr | 420 |
| Cedar Rapids | $28K | $13.3/hr | 320 |
| Ames | $28K | $13.25/hr | 160 |
Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop salary range in Iowa
Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop make in Iowa?▼
The median hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop salary in Iowa is $28,430 per year ($13.67/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $30,380. Salaries range from $20,570 to $44,730.
What are the requirements to become a hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop in Iowa?▼
Hosts and Hostesses, Restaurant, Lounge, and Coffee Shop 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 hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop afford to live in Iowa?▼
At the median salary of $28,430, a hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shop in Iowa would take home approximately $1,970/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 71.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shops in Iowa?▼
The highest paying metro areas for hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shops in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($29,630), Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($29,120), Dubuque ($28,450). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Iowa have state income tax for hosts and hostesses, restaurant, lounge, and coffee shops?▼
Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $28,430 salary, this means roughly $1,238/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.