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Healthcare · Iowa

How to Become a Surgical Assistants in Iowa

Surgical Assistants in Iowa earn a median salary of $60,620/year, which is 1% above the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a surgical assistants takes home approximately $2,564/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$61K
Median salary in Iowa
+1%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
80
Employed in Iowa

What a surgical assistants can afford in Iowa

Gross annual salary$60,620
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$3,976/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home35.5% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$60,620/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,564/mo

Becoming a surgical assistants in Iowa

1

Meet education requirements

Surgical Assistants positions in Iowa typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many surgical 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 surgical 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 80 surgical assistants. The highest concentrations are in Davenport-Moline-Rock Island.

Surgical Assistants salary by metro area in Iowa

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$45K$21.51/hr30

Surgical Assistants salary range in Iowa

10th percentile (entry)
$39K
25th percentile
$51K
Median (50th)
$61K
75th percentile
$66K
90th percentile (senior)
$82K
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Full surgical assistants salary breakdown in Iowa
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a surgical assistants make in Iowa?

The median surgical assistants salary in Iowa is $60,620 per year ($29.14/hr). This is 1% above the national median of $60,290. Salaries range from $39,100 to $82,360.

What are the requirements to become a surgical assistants in Iowa?

Surgical Assistants 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 surgical assistants afford to live in Iowa?

At the median salary of $60,620, a surgical assistants in Iowa would take home approximately $3,976/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for surgical assistants in Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for surgical assistants in Iowa are Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($44,730). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Iowa have state income tax for surgical assistants?

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $60,620 salary, this means roughly $3,030/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.