How to Become a Tour and Travel Guides in Iowa
Tour and Travel Guides in Iowa earn a median salary of $29,130/year, which is 21% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a tour and travel guides takes home approximately $603/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a tour and travel guides can afford in Iowa
Becoming a tour and travel guides in Iowa
Meet education requirements
Tour and Travel Guides positions in Iowa typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Iowa. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many tour and travel guides 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.
Obtain Iowa licensure or certification
Iowa may require specific licensing or professional certification for tour and travel guidess. 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 280 tour and travel guides. The highest concentrations are in Des Moines-West Des Moines and Davenport-Moline-Rock Island.
Tour and Travel Guides salary by metro area in Iowa
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines-West Des Moines | $30K | $14.58/hr | 80 |
| Davenport-Moline-Rock Island | $30K | $14.48/hr | 30 |
Tour and Travel Guides salary range in Iowa
Tour and Travel Guides careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a tour and travel guides make in Iowa?▼
The median tour and travel guides salary in Iowa is $29,130 per year ($14/hr). This is 21% below the national median of $36,660. Salaries range from $20,150 to $48,200.
What are the requirements to become a tour and travel guides in Iowa?▼
Tour and Travel Guides positions in Iowa typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Iowa may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Iowa licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a tour and travel guides afford to live in Iowa?▼
At the median salary of $29,130, a tour and travel guides in Iowa would take home approximately $2,015/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 70.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for tour and travel guides in Iowa?▼
The highest paying metro areas for tour and travel guides in Iowa are Des Moines-West Des Moines ($30,320), Davenport-Moline-Rock Island ($30,110). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Iowa have state income tax for tour and travel guides?▼
Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $29,130 salary, this means roughly $1,271/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.