Skip to content
AffordMap
Healthcare · Iowa

How to Become a Nurse Practitioners in Iowa

Nurse Practitioners in Iowa earn a median salary of $129,420/year, which is 0% above the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~5.4%. After taxes and rent, a nurse practitioners takes home approximately $6,276/month. Most positions require Master's degree.

$129K
Median salary in Iowa
+0%
vs. national average
5.4%
State income tax
2,810
Employed in Iowa

What a nurse practitioners can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$129,420
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.4% state tax)$7,688/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home18.4% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$129,420/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$6,276/mo

Becoming a nurse practitioners in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Nurse Practitioners positions in Iowa typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many nurse practitioners 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 nurse practitionerss. 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 2,810 nurse practitioners. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Iowa City.

Nurse Practitioners salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Des Moines-West Des Moines$132K$63.38/hr590
Iowa City$130K$62.57/hr290
Dubuque$130K$62.51/hr100
Sioux City$129K$62.18/hr150
Cedar Rapids$129K$61.86/hr190
Waterloo-Cedar Falls$127K$61.25/hr210
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$127K$60.86/hr350
Ames$127K$60.85/hr60

Nurse Practitioners salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$102K
25th percentile
$116K
Median (50th)
$129K
75th percentile
$138K
90th percentile (senior)
$167K
View jobs for Nurse Practitioners
Currently hiring in Iowa
View →
More openings for Nurse Practitioners
Currently hiring in Iowa
View →
Advance your nursing career
Online BSN and MSN programs — 45% off select certificates
View →
Full nurse practitioners salary breakdown in Iowa
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Iowa
After federal + 5.4% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Iowa cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Nurse Practitioners careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a nurse practitioners make in Iowa?

The median nurse practitioners salary in Iowa is $129,420 per year ($62.22/hr). This is 0% above the national median of $129,210. Salaries range from $102,150 to $167,110.

What are the requirements to become a nurse practitioners in Iowa?

Nurse Practitioners positions in Iowa typically require Master's degree. Iowa may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Iowa licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a nurse practitioners afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $129,420, a nurse practitioners in Iowa would take home approximately $7,688/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 18.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for nurse practitioners in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for nurse practitioners in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($131,820), Iowa City ($130,140), Dubuque ($130,010). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for nurse practitioners?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.4%. On a $129,420 salary, this means roughly $6,952/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.