Skip to content
AffordMap
Community & Social · Iowa

How to Become a Social and Human Service Assistants in Iowa

Social and Human Service Assistants in Iowa earn a median salary of $42,480/year, which is 8% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a social and human service assistants takes home approximately $1,434/month. Most positions require Master's degree.

$42K
Median salary in Iowa
-8%
vs. national average
4.7%
State income tax
5,230
Employed in Iowa

What a social and human service assistants can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$42,480
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.7% state tax)$2,848/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,414/mo
Rent as % of take-home49.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$42,480/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,434/mo

Becoming a social and human service assistants in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Social and Human Service Assistants 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 social and human service 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 social and human service 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 5,230 social and human service assistants. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Waterloo-Cedar Falls.

Social and Human Service Assistants salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Des Moines-West Des Moines$46K$22/hr1,370
Waterloo-Cedar Falls$44K$21.27/hr160
Sioux City$42K$20.03/hr280
Dubuque$41K$19.73/hr160
Iowa City$40K$19.2/hr430
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$40K$19.13/hr510
Ames$38K$18.39/hr180
Cedar Rapids$37K$18.02/hr700

Social and Human Service Assistants salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$33K
25th percentile
$37K
Median (50th)
$42K
75th percentile
$48K
90th percentile (senior)
$61K
View jobs for Social and Human Service Assistants
Currently hiring in Iowa
View →
More openings for Social and Human Service Assistants
Currently hiring in Iowa
View →
Build skills for your next move
Explore courses and certificates related to your role
View →
Full social and human service assistants salary breakdown in Iowa
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Iowa
After federal + 4.7% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Iowa cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Social and Human Service Assistants careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a social and human service assistants make in Iowa?

The median social and human service assistants salary in Iowa is $42,480 per year ($20.42/hr). This is 8% below the national median of $45,930. Salaries range from $33,060 to $60,780.

What are the requirements to become a social and human service assistants in Iowa?

Social and Human Service Assistants 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 social and human service assistants afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $42,480, a social and human service assistants in Iowa would take home approximately $2,848/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,414/month, that's 49.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for social and human service assistants in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for social and human service assistants in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($45,760), Waterloo-Cedar Falls ($44,250), Sioux City ($41,650). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for social and human service assistants?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $42,480 salary, this means roughly $1,996/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.