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Transportation · Iowa

How to Become a Locomotive Engineers in Iowa

Locomotive Engineers in Iowa earn a median salary of $87,550/year, which is 13% above the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~5.2%. After taxes and rent, a locomotive engineers takes home approximately $4,039/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$88K
Median salary in Iowa
+13%
vs. national average
5.2%
State income tax
1,520
Employed in Iowa

What a locomotive engineers can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$87,550
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.2% state tax)$5,451/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home25.9% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$87,550/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$4,039/mo

Becoming a locomotive engineers in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Locomotive Engineers 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 locomotive engineers 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 locomotive engineerss. 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 1,520 locomotive engineers.

Locomotive Engineers salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$73K
25th percentile
$73K
Median (50th)
$88K
75th percentile
$90K
90th percentile (senior)
$93K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a locomotive engineers make in Iowa?

The median locomotive engineers salary in Iowa is $87,550 per year ($42.09/hr). This is 13% above the national median of $77,400. Salaries range from $72,950 to $93,140.

What are the requirements to become a locomotive engineers in Iowa?

Locomotive Engineers 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 locomotive engineers afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $87,550, a locomotive engineers in Iowa would take home approximately $5,451/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 25.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for locomotive engineers in Iowa?

Check our location hub pages for detailed metro area data within Iowa.

Does Iowa have state income tax for locomotive engineers?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.2%. On a $87,550 salary, this means roughly $4,565/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.