Davenport, IA: A Career Guide for Elementary School Teachers

As a career analyst who’s spent years mapping the professional landscape of the Quad Cities, I’ve watched many teachers weigh the move to Davenport. It’s a city with a distinct rhythm—riverfront energy meets Midwestern pragmatism. If you’re considering teaching elementary school here, you’re looking at a stable market with a lower cost of living than the national average, but one that requires careful financial planning. This guide breaks down the numbers, the neighborhoods, and the realities of building a career in Davenport’s school system. Let’s get to work.

The Salary Picture: Where Davenport Stands

Understanding your earning potential is the first step. In Davenport, the salary for an Elementary School Teacher is competitive within Iowa, though it trails slightly behind the national average. The median salary here is $61,626/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $29.63. For context, the national average for the role is $63,670/year, placing Davenport about 3% below the U.S. mark. This gap is common in the Midwest but is offset by the city’s favorable cost of living.

The Quad Cities metro area, which includes Davenport, has 501 jobs for elementary school teachers, indicating a steady demand. However, the 10-year job growth is projected at just 1%, so this isn’t a high-growth market. It’s a stable, unionized environment where longevity is rewarded. Here’s how salaries typically break down by experience level:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Notes
Entry-Level (0-3 years)	$48,000 - $53,000	Based on Davenport Community School District’s starting steps for new teachers (B.A. degree).
Mid-Career (4-9 years)	$58,000 - $65,000	Aligns closely with the median. Additional credits or a Master’s start to impact pay here.
Senior (10-19 years)	$68,000 - $75,000	Top of the district's salary schedule. Often includes leadership stipends (e.g., mentor teacher).
Expert (20+ years)	$76,000 - $85,000	Requires a Master’s +30 credits or a Master’s +60. District leadership roles fall here.

Insider Tip: The Davenport Community School District (DCSD) uses a Bachelor’s (BA) and Master’s (MA) salary schedule. A teacher with a BA and 10 years of experience earns less than a teacher with an MA and 5 years. Investing in a Master’s degree early in your career can accelerate your earning potential significantly.

Comparison to Other Iowa Cities:

• Des Moines: Higher salaries (median ~$63,500) but a much higher cost of living.
• Cedar Rapids: Very similar to Davenport in both salary and cost of living.
• Iowa City: Slightly higher pay due to the university influence, but also a pricier rental market.
• Sioux City: Generally lower salaries and a different economic base.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A median salary of $61,626 sounds solid, but what’s left after the essentials? Davenport’s Cost of Living Index is 89.3 (US avg = 100), making it about 11% cheaper to live here than the national average. The biggest advantage is housing: the average 1BR rent is $773/month.

Let’s run a monthly budget for a single teacher earning the median salary. We’ll assume a 22% effective tax rate (a reasonable estimate for single filers in this bracket after federal, state, and FICA). This is an approximation; consult a tax professional for your exact situation.

Monthly Budget: Elementary School Teacher (Median Salary)

Category	Amount	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$5,135.50	$61,626 / 12 months
Estimated Take-Home (after 22% taxes)	$4,005.69	This is your net income for all expenses.
Rent (1BR Average)	$773	This is the city-wide average.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water)	~$150	Varies by season; summer AC can spike this.
Groceries	$350	Based on USDA moderate-cost plan for one adult.
Car Payment/Insurance	$400	Assumes a modest car note + full coverage. Davenport is car-dependent.
Gas/Transport	$150	You'll drive to work, grocery stores, and for leisure.
Health Insurance (if not fully covered)	$250	District plans are good, but premiums vary.
Retirement (Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System - IPERS)	$308	Mandatory 6% contribution.
Discretionary / Savings	$624.69	This is your buffer for dining out, entertainment, emergencies, and savings.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Yes, with careful planning. Davenport’s median home price is around $135,000 - $150,000 (as of 2023 data). With a 10% down payment ($13,500-$15,000), a 30-year mortgage at ~7% interest would have a monthly payment of roughly $800 - $900 (including principal, interest, taxes, and insurance). This is comparable to the average rent. The key is saving for the down payment. Many teachers here use IPERS loans or savings from summer work to build their down payment fund. The lower cost of living makes homeownership a realistic goal for mid-career teachers.

Where the Jobs Are: Davenport's Major Employers

The vast majority of elementary teaching jobs are with the Davenport Community School District (DCSD), which serves over 14,000 students across 30+ schools. DCSD is the primary employer, but there are other avenues to consider.

1. Davenport Community School District (DCSD): This is your main target. They have a transparent hiring process on their website. Schools are spread across the city, with the highest concentration in the north and east sides. Hiring is cyclical, with most openings posted in late spring for the following academic year. Hiring Trend: DCSD is actively working to diversify its staff to better reflect the student body. They also have a need for teachers with ESL (English as a Second Language) and Special Education credentials.

2. Moline School District #51 (Moline, IL): Located just 5 minutes across the I-74 bridge. While it's in Illinois, many Davenport residents work there. Salaries are competitive with DCSD, and the benefits are strong. The commute is easy, but you'll need an Illinois teaching license, which can be a bureaucratic hurdle.

3. Pleasant Valley School District (Pleasant Valley, IA): Located in the growing Bettendorf area (adjacent to Davenport). This is a high-performing, suburban district with excellent community support. Salaries are often slightly higher than DCSD, but the community is more affluent and the applicant pool is more competitive.

4. Assumption High School (Davenport): A private, Catholic school (K-12). While you specified elementary, their lower school is a potential employer. Salaries are typically lower than public districts, but they offer a smaller, community-focused environment.

5. Local Head Start & Preschool Programs: Organizations like the Moline Foundation or Davenport's Community Action Agency run early childhood programs. These are great entry points to get local experience if you're new to the area.

6. University & College Programs: St. Ambrose University (Davenport) and Augustana College (Rock Island) have education departments. They often hire for adjunct positions or need substitute teachers, which is a fantastic way to get your foot in the door with local schools.

Getting Licensed in Iowa

Iowa’s licensing is straightforward but requires precision. The Iowa Board of Educational Examiners (BOEE) is your governing body.

State-Specific Requirements:

1. Approved Program: You must complete an approved teacher preparation program (in Iowa or another state).
2. Praxis Exams: Iowa requires the Praxis Core (basic skills) and the Praxis II (content knowledge for elementary education #5001). You must pass these.
3. Background Check: A fingerprint-based criminal record check is mandatory.
4. Application: Submit your application, transcripts, test scores, and fees through the BOEE online portal.

Costs (Approximate):

• Praxis Core: ~$130
• Praxis II (Elementary): ~$130
• Application Fee: $150 for a 2-year Initial License
• Background Check: ~$50
• Total Initial Cost: ~$460

Timeline to Get Started:
If you're already licensed in another state, you can apply for a Reciprocity License. Iowa has reciprocity with most states, but you must still meet Iowa's content and testing requirements. The process typically takes 2-3 months. If you're starting from scratch (college student), you'll need to complete your program and exams before applying. A safe timeline is 1 full academic year to complete your program, pass exams, and secure a license before a job search.

Insider Tip: Start your BOEE application before you have a job offer. You can get a non-renewable 1-year license to accept a position, but having your full license makes you a more attractive candidate to districts.

Best Neighborhoods for Elementary School Teachers

Davenport is a city of distinct neighborhoods. Your choice impacts commute, lifestyle, and budget. All commute times are to the central DCSD offices or a typical school.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Average 1BR Rent	Best For
Near North Side	Urban, diverse, near downtown. 5-10 min commute to most north side schools.	$650 - $850	Teachers who want walkability, historic buildings, and a vibrant community feel.
East Village	Quiet, residential, close to the Mississippi River. 10-15 min commute to east side schools.	$700 - $900	Those seeking a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere with beautiful parks.
McClellan Heights	Historic, hilly, with a strong neighborhood association. 10-15 min commute.	$750 - $1,000+	Teachers who appreciate architectural charm, maturity, and a tight-knit community.
Pleasant Valley (Bettendorf)	Suburban, modern, excellent amenities. 15-20 min commute to Davenport schools, but immediate access to Pleasant Valley SD.	$900 - $1,200	Teachers prioritizing modern housing, top-rated schools (if working in Pleasant Valley), and suburban life.
The Mill	Industrial-chic lofts in converted warehouses. 5-10 min commute to downtown.	$850 - $1,200	Young, single teachers wanting a unique, trendy living space in the heart of the action.

Insider Tip: If you work for DCSD, living north of I-80 can mean a quick commute to many schools. If you work for Pleasant Valley SD, living in Bettendorf or northern Davenport is ideal. The rent in Pleasant Valley is higher, but you may be able to find a more modern apartment for your budget.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-year job growth of 1% tells you that lateral movement within Davenport's schools is the norm, not vertical leaps into new districts. However, there are clear paths to advancement and higher pay.

• Specialty Premiums: DCSD offers stipends for hard-to-fill positions. You can earn an additional $1,500 - $4,000 annually for roles like:

  • ESL (English as a Second Language) Endorsement
  • Special Education (SPED) Endorsement
  • National Board Certification (a significant, one-time bonus and career highlight)
  • Bilingual Spanish Endorsement (high demand in the Quad Cities)

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Instructional Coach: Move out of the classroom to mentor other teachers. Requires a Master’s degree and proven expertise.
  2. Administrator: Become a vice-principal or principal. This requires a Master’s in Educational Leadership and often 5+ years of teaching experience. The pay jump is substantial (into the $90k+ range).
  3. District Leadership: Roles in curriculum development, special education coordination, or federal programs at the DCSD administrative office.

10-Year Outlook: Stability is the key word. You are unlikely to see a boom in openings. Your growth will come from tenure, advanced degrees, and specialty certifications. The teachers who thrive are those who get involved in district committees, pursue ongoing education, and build strong relationships within the school community.

The Verdict: Is Davenport Right for You?

Davenport offers a solid, sustainable career for an elementary school teacher who values stability and a low cost of living over rapid career climbing and high salaries. It’s a great fit for those who want to buy a home early, enjoy a strong sense of community, and appreciate the amenities of a mid-sized city with a rich cultural scene (thanks to its proximity to the other Quad Cities).

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your salary goes far, especially in housing.	Slow Job Growth: Few new openings; competition for desirable schools can be fierce.
Stable, Unionized Jobs: Strong contracts and benefits with DCSD.	Lower-Than-Average Pay: Compared to national figures and coastal cities.
Strong Sense of Community: Tight-knit neighborhoods and school communities.	Car-Dependent: Public transit is limited; a reliable car is a necessity.
Variety of Districts: Options to work in urban, suburban, or private schools.	Midwest Weather: Winters can be harsh with snow and ice, impacting commutes.
Gateway to the Quad Cities: Easy access to jobs, dining, and culture in 4 cities.	Limited International Diversity: While growing, it's not as diverse as major metro areas.

Final Recommendation:
Davenport is an excellent choice for teachers who are early to mid-career and looking to establish financial stability. It’s perfect for someone who wants to own a home without a 30-year mortgage burden. It may not be the best fit for teachers seeking rapid career advancement or those who prioritize a high salary above all else. If you value a balanced life, community, and the ability to save, Davenport is a strong contender.

FAQs

Q: Do I need a car to teach in Davenport?
A: Absolutely yes. The city is spread out, and school parking lots are designed for staff. While some central neighborhoods are walkable, you will need a car for grocery shopping, commuting, and enjoying the broader Quad Cities area.

Q: How do Davenport schools compare to suburban schools like Pleasant Valley?
A: Davenport schools are more diverse and face greater socioeconomic challenges, which can be incredibly rewarding but also demanding. Pleasant Valley schools are in more affluent areas and often have higher test scores and more resources. Both are respected employers, but the daily environment is different.

Q: What’s the healthcare like for teachers?
A: The Davenport Community School District offers a robust benefits package through the Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS) and well-regarded health insurance plans. Premiums are typically reasonable, and the district covers a significant portion.

Q: Is it easy to transfer an out-of-state license?
A: Yes, Iowa has reciprocity with most states. The process is administrative. You'll still need to pass the Iowa-specific Praxis exams (if you haven't already) and complete a background check. Start the process with the Iowa BOEE at least 3 months before you want to start working.

Q: What’s the community like for a single teacher?
A: Davenport has a growing arts and food scene, especially downtown and in the East Village. The Quad Cities offer more to do than Davenport alone—Rock Island has a great music venue (The Tax Slayer Center), and Bettendorf has upscale dining. It’s not a major metropolis, but you won’t be bored if you seek out the local events.

---

Data Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Iowa Board of Educational Examiners (BOEE), Davenport Community School District Salary Schedules, Davenport City Data, Zillow Rent Estimates.