What is the average RN salary in Waterloo?

The average RN salary in Waterloo is $79,380. This city-specific figure compares to the U.S. RN median salary of $93,600 (BLS), placing Waterloo 15.2% below the national median; the metric shows Waterloo nurses earn $14,220 less than the U.S. median.

How many hospitals are in Waterloo?

There are 3 hospitals in Waterloo. The local system includes larger acute-care hospitals and community facilities; among them are major providers like UnityPoint Health - Allen Hospital and MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center, which serve inpatient and emergency needs across Black Hawk County.

What is the cost of living in Waterloo?

The cost of living index in Waterloo is 89.9 (U.S. average = 100). Housing costs are a primary driver of that lower index; combined with 40.1 inches of annual precipitation and 264 sunny days, Waterloo's affordability stands out for nurses seeking below-average housing expenses.

Is Waterloo a good place for nurses?

Waterloo can be a practical choice for nurses seeking affordability; RNs earn $79,380 locally while the Adjusted Salary is $88,298, and the Cost of Living Index is 89.9. Quality-of-life factors include a temperate climate (57°F average high) and three local hospitals offering varied clinical roles.

What is the real purchasing power for nurses in Waterloo?

The Adjusted Salary in Waterloo is $88,298 after accounting for the Cost of Living Index of 89.9. Compared to the raw U.S. RN median of $93,600, that adjusted figure reflects stronger local purchasing power in Waterloo despite the nominal RN salary of $79,380.

Can nurses use a multistate compact license to work in Waterloo?

Yes — Iowa is an NLC state, so multistate compact licenses are accepted for Waterloo practice. That means nurses with an active multistate license can practice in Waterloo without obtaining an Iowa-only license, facilitating mobility for clinicians coming from other NLC jurisdictions.

What nursing specialties are most in demand in Waterloo?

ICU and emergency department (ED) nurses are in demand given Waterloo's acute-care hospital presence, along with med-surgical and labor and delivery (L&D) nurses supporting inpatient services. Behavioral health nursing is also relevant due to community hospital behavioral health programs in Waterloo.

Nursing in Waterloo, IA

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