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How to Become a Physical Therapist Assistants in Iowa

Physical Therapist Assistants in Iowa earn a median salary of $61,030/year, which is 11% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a physical therapist assistants takes home approximately $2,822/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$61K
Median salary in Iowa
-11%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
1,060
Employed in Iowa

What a physical therapist assistants can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$61,030
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$4,002/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,180/mo
Rent as % of take-home29.5% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$61,030/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,822/mo

Becoming a physical therapist assistants in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Physical Therapist 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.

2

Gain required experience

Many physical therapist 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.

3

Obtain Iowa licensure or certification

Iowa may require specific licensing or professional certification for physical therapist assistantss. 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 1,060 physical therapist assistants. The highest concentrations are in Waterloo-Cedar Falls and Ames.

Physical Therapist Assistants salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Waterloo-Cedar Falls$63K$30.22/hr60
Ames$62K$29.83/hr30
Des Moines-West Des Moines$61K$29.5/hr170
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$61K$29.39/hr140
Sioux City$61K$29.1/hr40
Cedar Rapids$58K$27.97/hr110
Iowa City$58K$27.95/hr60
Dubuque$52K$24.83/hr50

Physical Therapist Assistants salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$46K
25th percentile
$52K
Median (50th)
$61K
75th percentile
$66K
90th percentile (senior)
$75K
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Full physical therapist assistants salary breakdown in Iowa
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a physical therapist assistants make in Iowa?

The median physical therapist assistants salary in Iowa is $61,030 per year ($29.34/hr). This is 11% below the national median of $68,380. Salaries range from $45,760 to $74,950.

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

Physical Therapist 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 physical therapist assistants afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $61,030, a physical therapist assistants in Iowa would take home approximately $4,002/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,180/month, that's 29.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for physical therapist assistants in Iowa are Waterloo-Cedar Falls ($62,850), Ames ($62,040), Des Moines-West Des Moines ($61,360). 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 assistants?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $61,030 salary, this means roughly $3,053/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.