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Public Safety · Iowa

How to Become a Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers in Iowa

Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers in Iowa earn a median salary of $25,450/year, which is 25% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers takes home approximately $368/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$25K
Median salary in Iowa
-25%
vs. national average
4.3%
State income tax
1,230
Employed in Iowa

What a lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$25,450
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.3% state tax)$1,780/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home79.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$25,450/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$368/mo

Becoming a lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers positions in Iowa typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers 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 lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workerss. 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 1,230 lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers. The highest concentrations are in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City.

Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Cedar Rapids$31K$14.96/hr150
Iowa City$31K$14.87/hr60
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$29K$14/hr140
Sioux City$28K$13.28/hr50
Des Moines-West Des Moines$27K$12.75/hr270
Dubuque$26K$12.63/hr50
Waterloo-Cedar Falls$24K$11.69/hr30
Ames$24K$11.5/hr30

Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$21K
25th percentile
$23K
Median (50th)
$25K
75th percentile
$29K
90th percentile (senior)
$31K
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Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers make in Iowa?

The median lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers salary in Iowa is $25,450 per year ($12.24/hr). This is 25% below the national median of $33,720. Salaries range from $20,800 to $31,110.

What are the requirements to become a lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers in Iowa?

Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers positions in Iowa typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Iowa may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Iowa licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $25,450, a lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers in Iowa would take home approximately $1,780/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 79.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers in Iowa are Cedar Rapids ($31,110), Iowa City ($30,930), Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($29,120). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for lifeguards, ski patrol, and other recreational protective service workers?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.3%. On a $25,450 salary, this means roughly $1,094/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.