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Healthcare Support · Iowa

How to Become a Physical Therapist Aides in Iowa

Physical Therapist Aides in Iowa earn a median salary of $29,120/year, which is 17% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a physical therapist aides takes home approximately $658/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$29K
Median salary in Iowa
-17%
vs. national average
4.4%
State income tax
390
Employed in Iowa

What a physical therapist aides can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$29,120
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.4% state tax)$2,014/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,356/mo
Rent as % of take-home67.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$29,120/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$658/mo

Becoming a physical therapist aides in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Physical Therapist Aides positions in Iowa typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many physical therapist aides 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 physical therapist aidess. 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 390 physical therapist aides. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Iowa City.

Physical Therapist Aides salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Des Moines-West Des Moines$29K$14/hr100
Iowa City$28K$13.32/hr30

Physical Therapist Aides salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$22K
25th percentile
$27K
Median (50th)
$29K
75th percentile
$37K
90th percentile (senior)
$44K
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Full physical therapist aides salary breakdown in Iowa
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a physical therapist aides make in Iowa?

The median physical therapist aides salary in Iowa is $29,120 per year ($14/hr). This is 17% below the national median of $35,240. Salaries range from $21,840 to $43,760.

What are the requirements to become a physical therapist aides in Iowa?

Physical Therapist Aides 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 physical therapist aides afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $29,120, a physical therapist aides in Iowa would take home approximately $2,014/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,356/month, that's 67.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for physical therapist aides in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for physical therapist aides in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($29,120), Iowa City ($27,700). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for physical therapist aides?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $29,120 salary, this means roughly $1,271/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.