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How to Become a Human Resources Specialists in Iowa

Human Resources Specialists in Iowa earn a median salary of $66,710/year, which is 12% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~5.1%. After taxes and rent, a human resources specialists takes home approximately $2,398/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$67K
Median salary in Iowa
-12%
vs. national average
5.1%
State income tax
7,930
Employed in Iowa

What a human resources specialists can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$66,710
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.1% state tax)$4,328/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,930/mo
Rent as % of take-home44.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$66,710/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,398/mo

Becoming a human resources specialists in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Human Resources Specialists positions in Iowa typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many human resources specialists 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 human resources specialistss. 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 7,930 human resources specialists. The highest concentrations are in Davenport-Moline-Rock Island and Des Moines-West Des Moines.

Human Resources Specialists salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$80K$38.3/hr1,420
Des Moines-West Des Moines$72K$34.42/hr2,450
Iowa City$71K$34.19/hr480
Ames$70K$33.68/hr260
Dubuque$64K$30.96/hr380
Cedar Rapids$63K$30.32/hr670
Sioux City$63K$30.31/hr280
Waterloo-Cedar Falls$62K$29.76/hr360

Human Resources Specialists salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$45K
25th percentile
$54K
Median (50th)
$67K
75th percentile
$86K
90th percentile (senior)
$111K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a human resources specialists make in Iowa?

The median human resources specialists salary in Iowa is $66,710 per year ($32.07/hr). This is 12% below the national median of $75,940. Salaries range from $45,400 to $110,640.

What are the requirements to become a human resources specialists in Iowa?

Human Resources Specialists positions in Iowa typically require Bachelor'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 human resources specialists afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $66,710, a human resources specialists in Iowa would take home approximately $4,328/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,930/month, that's 44.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for human resources specialists in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for human resources specialists in Iowa are Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($79,670), Des Moines-West Des Moines ($71,600), Iowa City ($71,120). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for human resources specialists?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.1%. On a $66,710 salary, this means roughly $3,377/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.