How to Become a Registered Nurses in Iowa
Registered Nurses in Iowa earn a median salary of $76,960/year, which is 18% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~5.1%. After taxes and rent, a registered nurses takes home approximately $3,469/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a registered nurses can afford in Iowa
Becoming a registered nurses in Iowa
Meet education requirements
Registered Nurses positions in Iowa typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in Iowa. 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 registered nursess. 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 33,480 registered nurses. The highest concentrations are in Iowa City and Des Moines-West Des Moines.
Registered Nurses salary by metro area in Iowa
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa City | $83K | $39.87/hr | 4,050 |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines | $79K | $37.97/hr | 7,800 |
| Davenport-Moline-Rock Island | $77K | $36.82/hr | 3,810 |
| Cedar Rapids | $77K | $36.81/hr | 2,690 |
| Ames | $73K | $35.06/hr | 1,100 |
| Dubuque | $71K | $34.01/hr | 1,280 |
| Waterloo-Cedar Falls | $70K | $33.5/hr | 1,960 |
| Sioux City | $69K | $33.26/hr | 1,520 |
Registered Nurses salary range in Iowa
Registered Nurses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a registered nurses make in Iowa?▼
The median registered nurses salary in Iowa is $76,960 per year ($37/hr). This is 18% below the national median of $93,600. Salaries range from $62,210 to $98,280.
What are the requirements to become a registered nurses in Iowa?▼
Registered Nurses positions in Iowa typically require Bachelor'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 registered nurses afford to live in Iowa?▼
At the median salary of $76,960, a registered nurses in Iowa would take home approximately $4,881/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for registered nurses in Iowa?▼
The highest paying metro areas for registered nurses in Iowa are Iowa City ($82,920), Des Moines-West Des Moines ($78,970), Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($76,590). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Iowa have state income tax for registered nurses?▼
Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.1%. On a $76,960 salary, this means roughly $3,961/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.