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How to Become a Rehabilitation Counselors in Iowa

Rehabilitation Counselors in Iowa earn a median salary of $39,630/year, which is 15% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.6%. After taxes and rent, a rehabilitation counselors takes home approximately $1,264/month. Most positions require Master's degree.

$40K
Median salary in Iowa
-15%
vs. national average
4.6%
State income tax
2,170
Employed in Iowa

What a rehabilitation counselors can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$39,630
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.6% state tax)$2,671/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,407/mo
Rent as % of take-home52.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$39,630/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,264/mo

Becoming a rehabilitation counselors in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Rehabilitation Counselors 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 rehabilitation counselors 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 rehabilitation counselorss. 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 2,170 rehabilitation counselors. The highest concentrations are in Sioux City and Des Moines-West Des Moines.

Rehabilitation Counselors salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Sioux City$46K$22.33/hr130
Des Moines-West Des Moines$46K$22.21/hr660
Dubuque$46K$22.14/hr50
Cedar Rapids$44K$21.31/hr100
Waterloo-Cedar Falls$43K$20.62/hr70
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$40K$19.3/hr210
Iowa City$39K$18.58/hr140

Rehabilitation Counselors salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$34K
25th percentile
$36K
Median (50th)
$40K
75th percentile
$48K
90th percentile (senior)
$58K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a rehabilitation counselors make in Iowa?

The median rehabilitation counselors salary in Iowa is $39,630 per year ($19.05/hr). This is 15% below the national median of $46,850. Salaries range from $34,370 to $58,220.

What are the requirements to become a rehabilitation counselors in Iowa?

Rehabilitation Counselors 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 rehabilitation counselors afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $39,630, a rehabilitation counselors in Iowa would take home approximately $2,671/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,407/month, that's 52.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for rehabilitation counselors in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for rehabilitation counselors in Iowa are Sioux City ($46,440), Des Moines-West Des Moines ($46,200), Dubuque ($46,050). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for rehabilitation counselors?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.6%. On a $39,630 salary, this means roughly $1,834/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.