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Transportation · Iowa

How to Become a Light Truck Drivers in Iowa

Light Truck Drivers in Iowa earn a median salary of $43,910/year, which is 1% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a light truck drivers takes home approximately $1,525/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$44K
Median salary in Iowa
-1%
vs. national average
4.7%
State income tax
8,940
Employed in Iowa

What a light truck drivers can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$43,910
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.7% state tax)$2,937/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home48.1% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$43,910/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,525/mo

Becoming a light truck drivers in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Light 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 light 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 light 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 8,940 light truck drivers. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Iowa City.

Light Truck Drivers salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Des Moines-West Des Moines$46K$22.04/hr3,130
Iowa City$46K$21.92/hr590
Cedar Rapids$46K$21.88/hr820
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$43K$20.91/hr1,250
Dubuque$43K$20.59/hr570
Sioux City$42K$20.31/hr450
Waterloo-Cedar Falls$40K$19.28/hr390
Ames$40K$19.27/hr200

Light Truck Drivers salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$28K
25th percentile
$36K
Median (50th)
$44K
75th percentile
$49K
90th percentile (senior)
$88K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a light truck drivers make in Iowa?

The median light truck drivers salary in Iowa is $43,910 per year ($21.11/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $44,140. Salaries range from $28,310 to $87,830.

What are the requirements to become a light truck drivers in Iowa?

Light 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 light truck drivers afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $43,910, a light truck drivers in Iowa would take home approximately $2,937/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 48.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for light truck drivers in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for light truck drivers in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($45,850), Iowa City ($45,600), Cedar Rapids ($45,520). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for light truck drivers?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $43,910 salary, this means roughly $2,078/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.