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We look forward to helping you advance your career as a travel nurse!
June 21, 2023
Nestled in the Midwest, Iowa is a state known for its legendary cornfields, charming small towns, and Midwestern hospitality. From its annual state fair, showcasing the best of agriculture, entertainment, and the famous butter cow to the historic bridges of Madison County, Iowa draws travel nurses with its unique blend of rural beauty and vibrant attractions.
From exploring the energetic cultural scene in cities like Des Moines to visiting local farmers’ markets and festivals, Iowa offers enriching experiences that make it an amazing destination for travel nurses.
Iowa also has exciting opportunities in travel nursing with high demand. ZipRecruiter reports that the median annual salary for travel nurses in Iowa is $98,462, or $47 per hour. Here we’ll show you why you should consider embarking on your next travel nursing adventure in the Hawkeye State!
Looking for travel nurse assignments in Iowa? Speak with a recruiter today!
Let’s kick things off by delving into one of the key advantages that travel nursing brings to the table: great pay! The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that Iowa pays registered nurses an average of $69,370 annually, or $33.35/hr. The BLS also states that the annual median nurse income is $77,600 in the United States, which puts Iowa slightly lower than the national average.
Fortunately, Iowa travel nurses have more earning potential! ZipRecruiter reports that the median annual salary of travel nurses in Iowa is $98,462 annually or $47 per hour. Sioux City, Dubuque, Des Moines, Ames, and Iowa City stand out as the most financially rewarding cities for travel nurses.
| City | Hourly Wage | Weekly Wage | Monthly Wage |
| Sioux City | $51.84 | $2,073 | $8,984 |
| Dubuque | $51.80 | $2,063 | $8,943 |
| Des Moines | $49.81 | $1,992 | $8,663 |
| Ames | $48.65 | $1,945 | $8,432 |
| Iowa City | $47.80 | $1,912 | $8,285 |
Looking for open travel nurse assignments? Speak with a recruiter today!
Earnings for travel nurses in Iowa are subject to many variables, including whether you work in an urban or rural area. Total income is also influenced by specialization, years of experience, type of healthcare institution, and degree level. Some facilities may offer higher compensation packages to nurses holding a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) trained nurses, but that is not the case for every facility.
According to ZipRecruiter, the highest-paying travel nursing specialties in the state of Iowa include:
U.S. News and World Report evaluated 122 hospitals in the state of Iowa.
Out of the numerous healthcare institutions in the state, four have achieved distinction by meeting the rigorous standards set by U.S. News and are ranked accordingly. Here are Iowa’s top four hospitals:
Iowa City’s University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics has achieved national recognition for its excellence in two adult specialties and seven pediatric specialties. This esteemed medical and surgical facility proudly serves as a teaching hospital, fostering the growth and development of future healthcare professionals.
In the vibrant city of Des Moines, MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center shines as a healthcare institution that has been recognized for its high performance in 11 adult procedures and conditions. This esteemed general medical and surgical facility prioritizes the well-being of its patients, with exceptional care and treatment. The evaluation of MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center encompasses a comprehensive analysis that also includes data from MercyOne West Des Moines Medical Center.
Providing health care since 1901, UnityPoint Health-Iowa Methodist Medical Center is a major regional medical center and teaching facility. Located in the vibrant city of Des Moines, IA, this facility has garnered recognition for its high performance in nine adult procedures and conditions. This general medical and surgical facility stands as a pillar of healthcare excellence.
Located in the city of Cedar Rapids, UnityPoint Health-St. Luke’s Hospital has stood as a beacon of exceptional healthcare since its founding over 140 years ago. This facility is recognized for its high performance in nine adult procedures and conditions and is a general medical and surgical facility.
The cost of living in Iowa encompasses the financial requirements necessary to maintain a desired standard of living within the state. It encompasses various expenditures, such as:
There may also be other miscellaneous essential costs that will be pertinent to your travel assignment in Iowa.
Fortunately BestPlaces.net reports that the average cost of living in Iowa is 19.9% less expensive than the US average, making Iowa one of the most affordable states in the country.
Des Moines, Iowa, in particular, offers an appealing cost of living, as reported by Payscale. With a cost of living that is 14% lower than the national average, Des Moines provides a budget-friendly environment. Housing expenses are also particularly low, with costs 32% below the national average. Additionally, grocery prices are 2% lower, and utilities are 15% lower than the national average, further contributing to the affordability of living in Des Moines.
If you embark on a travel assignment in Iowa, you’ll be pleased to discover that many other cities throughout the state also offer a lower cost of living, as noted by BestPlaces.net. Factors such as home prices, rent, food, utilities, and healthcare costs have been taken into account. While some cities may have slightly higher utility expenses, when considering all factors combined, the overall cost of living remains well below the national average. This presents an enticing opportunity for individuals seeking a cost-effective living situation during their travel assignment in Iowa.
| City | National Average | Median Home Price | Median Monthly Rent | Average Energy Bill |
| Des Moines | 14% lower | $305,719 | $929.54 | $150.47 |
| Cedar Rapids | 11% lower | $321,050 | $976.15 | $162.14 |
| Davenport | 3% lower | $453,618 | $1,379 | $153.48 |
| Waterloo | 14% lower | $361,632 | $1,100 | $159.67 |
| Ankeny | 8% lower | $450,251 | $1,278 | $150.47 |
Before embarking on any travel assignment, it is vital to do a thorough evaluation of each potential location, carefully weighing the pros and cons to ensure they align with your needs and preferences.
Outdoor:
Art and Music:
Nightlife:
Iowa is a fantastic destination for travel nursing due to its high demand for healthcare professionals and competitive salaries. With a median annual salary of $98,462, or $47 per hour, travel nurses in Iowa can enjoy a substantial income with a lower-than-average cost of living.
Moreover, Iowa’s natural beauty, and welcoming community make it an attractive place to live and work. Travel nurses can explore museums, attend music festivals, and engage in outdoor activities amidst the state’s picturesque landscapes.
All these attractions, combined with Iowa’s friendly residents and welcoming nature, make the state a great place to visit and explore on your next travel assignment!
Speak with a recruiter about available travel nursing assignments in Iowa!
