What is the average RN salary in Cedar Rapids?

The average RN salary in Cedar Rapids is $77,446. This is $16,154 below the U.S. RN median salary of $93,600 and reflects a -17.3% variance versus the national median. Cedar Rapids-specific data shows the local average and the national comparison using the provided U.S. RN median figure.

How many hospitals are in Cedar Rapids?

Cedar Rapids has 5 hospitals in the city. Major local hospitals include regional acute-care centers such as Mercy Medical Center and St. Luke's (top regional providers); these two are among the primary hospital employers. The citywide hospital count of 5 supports a range of inpatient and specialty services.

What is the cost of living in Cedar Rapids?

The cost of living in Cedar Rapids has an index of 90.3 (U.S. average = 100). Housing and overall expenses are below the national average, which helps explain the adjusted salary figure; Cedar Rapids residents benefit from a lower housing cost component relative to the U.S. baseline.

Is Cedar Rapids a good place for nurses?

Yes — Cedar Rapids is a practical option for many nurses seeking affordability and hospital-based work. The city has 5 hospitals and an adjusted nursing salary of $85,765 when accounting for a Cost of Living Index of 90.3, plus about 268 sunny days per year contributing to quality of life.

What is the real purchasing power for nurses in Cedar Rapids?

The adjusted purchasing power for nurses in Cedar Rapids is $85,765 after applying the Cost of Living Index of 90.3. Compared with the U.S. RN median of $93,600, Cedar Rapids nurses have lower nominal pay ($77,446) but stronger local buying power due to the 90.3 COL index.

Can nurses use a multistate compact license to work in Cedar Rapids?

Yes — Iowa is an NLC (Nurse Licensure Compact) state, so nurses with a multistate compact license can practice in Cedar Rapids without obtaining a separate Iowa license. Multistate privileges allow cross-state practice from an NLC primary state of residence to work in Cedar Rapids hospitals under compact rules.

What nursing specialties are most in demand in Cedar Rapids?

ICU, emergency department (ED), labor and delivery (L&D), and med-surgical nursing are most relevant in Cedar Rapids given its network of acute-care hospitals. The local hospital mix of regional acute-care centers supports critical care and perinatal services, making these settings primary targets for hiring.

Nursing in Cedar Rapids, IA

Practical guide to nursing in Cedar Rapids, IA — salaries, cost of living, hospitals, climate, and what nurses actually earn after local taxes and rent.