How to Become a Medical Assistants in Iowa
Medical Assistants in Iowa earn a median salary of $43,670/year, which is 1% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a medical assistants takes home approximately $1,510/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a medical assistants can afford in Iowa
Becoming a medical assistants in Iowa
Meet education requirements
Medical Assistants positions in Iowa typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many medical assistants 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.
Obtain Iowa licensure or certification
Iowa may require specific licensing or professional certification for medical assistantss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Iowa Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Iowa
Iowa employs 5,260 medical assistants. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Cedar Rapids.
Medical Assistants salary by metro area in Iowa
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines-West Des Moines | $46K | $21.97/hr | 1,410 |
| Cedar Rapids | $45K | $21.78/hr | 500 |
| Waterloo-Cedar Falls | $45K | $21.56/hr | 350 |
| Ames | $45K | $21.55/hr | 170 |
| Davenport-Moline-Rock Island | $43K | $20.63/hr | 710 |
| Dubuque | $42K | $20.23/hr | 130 |
| Sioux City | $41K | $19.67/hr | 250 |
| Iowa City | $40K | $19.35/hr | 480 |
Medical Assistants salary range in Iowa
Medical Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical assistants make in Iowa?▼
The median medical assistants salary in Iowa is $43,670 per year ($21/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $44,200. Salaries range from $36,190 to $50,950.
What are the requirements to become a medical assistants in Iowa?▼
Medical Assistants 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 medical assistants afford to live in Iowa?▼
At the median salary of $43,670, a medical assistants in Iowa would take home approximately $2,922/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 48.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical assistants in Iowa?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical assistants in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($45,700), Cedar Rapids ($45,300), Waterloo-Cedar Falls ($44,830). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Iowa have state income tax for medical assistants?▼
Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $43,670 salary, this means roughly $2,064/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.