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Healthcare · Iowa

How to Become a Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses in Iowa

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses in Iowa earn a median salary of $62,630/year, which is 3% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses takes home approximately $2,890/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$63K
Median salary in Iowa
-3%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
5,510
Employed in Iowa

What a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$62,630
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$4,101/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,211/mo
Rent as % of take-home29.5% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$62,630/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,890/mo

Becoming a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses positions in Iowa typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses 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 licensed practical and licensed vocational nursess. 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 5,510 licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses. The highest concentrations are in Ames and Davenport-Moline-Rock Island.

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Ames$66K$31.55/hr190
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$64K$30.82/hr640
Dubuque$64K$30.65/hr200
Iowa City$64K$30.62/hr230
Des Moines-West Des Moines$64K$30.61/hr1,040
Cedar Rapids$62K$29.73/hr380
Sioux City$60K$29.06/hr260
Waterloo-Cedar Falls$60K$28.82/hr360

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$51K
25th percentile
$56K
Median (50th)
$63K
75th percentile
$71K
90th percentile (senior)
$78K
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Full licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses salary breakdown in Iowa
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses make in Iowa?

The median licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses salary in Iowa is $62,630 per year ($30.11/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $64,400. Salaries range from $50,550 to $77,710.

What are the requirements to become a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in Iowa?

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses positions in Iowa typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Iowa may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Iowa licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $62,630, a licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in Iowa would take home approximately $4,101/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,211/month, that's 29.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses in Iowa are Ames ($65,610), Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($64,100), Dubuque ($63,750). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $62,630 salary, this means roughly $3,145/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.