Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Davenport, IA

The Salary Picture: Where Davenport Stands

As a local, I can tell you straight up: Davenport isn't a high-wage city for healthcare support roles, but its cost of living is your secret weapon. The median salary for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) here is $34,612/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.64/hour. This sits just below the national average of $35,760/year, but don't let that gap fool you. When you factor in our low cost of living, your paycheck goes further here than in many other parts of the country.

The Quad Cities metro area (which includes Davenport, Bettendorf, Rock Island, and Moline) has a population of about 100,361, and the demand for CNAs is steady but not explosive. There are approximately 200 jobs in the metro for this role, with a 10-year job growth projection of 4%. This is a stable, predictable market—ideal if you're looking for reliability over high-risk, high-reward opportunities.

To give you a clearer picture of what you can expect to earn based on your experience, here’s a breakdown:

Experience Level	Annual Salary Range	Hourly Rate Range	Typical Workplace
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$30,000 - $33,000	$14.42 - $15.87	Nursing Homes, Assisted Living
Mid-Level (2-5 years)	$33,000 - $37,000	$15.87 - $17.79	Hospitals, Large ALFs
Senior-Level (5-10 years)	$37,000 - $40,000	$17.79 - $19.23	Hospital Specialties, Charge CNA
Expert-Level (10+ years)	$40,000+	$19.23+	Hospital Unit Coordinators, Education roles

When you compare Davenport to other Iowa cities, the picture becomes clearer. Des Moines, with its state capital and larger corporate presence, often pays 5-10% more for the same role. Iowa City, home to the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, is another high-demand market that can command slightly higher wages. Cedar Rapids rounds out the list with a similar cost of living but a slightly larger manufacturing base that can pull from the same healthcare pool. Davenport's advantage isn't in topping the salary charts; it's in the powerful combination of a median salary of $34,612 and a cost-of-living index of 89.3 (US avg = 100). That 10.7% lower cost of living effectively boosts your purchasing power.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. What does a $34,612 annual salary actually mean for your monthly life in Davenport? We’ll assume you’re single, filing as an individual, and taking the standard deduction.

• Gross Monthly Income: $34,612 / 12 = $2,884
• Estimated Taxes (Federal + State + FICA): ~18% = -$519
• Net Monthly Income: $2,365

Now, let’s build a realistic monthly budget. The average 1-bedroom apartment rent in Davenport is $773/month. This is a key number. Let's see how it fits.

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$773	Varies by neighborhood (see below)
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water)	$150	Older buildings can be less efficient
Internet	$60	Standard package
Groceries	$300	For one person, shopping at local chains like Hy-Vee or Aldi
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	$350	Assumes a modest used car; public transport is limited
Health Insurance	$200	Employer-sponsored plans vary
Personal/Misc.	$200	Clothing, entertainment, etc.
Total Expenses	$2,033
Remaining/Savings	$332

This budget is tight but manageable. The surplus is only $332/month. This highlights a critical insider tip: your choice of housing is your biggest lever for financial comfort. A roommate situation can slash your rent to $400-500/month, freeing up over $300 for savings, debt payoff, or quality of life. Many staff at Genesis Medical Center and local nursing homes live in the nearby suburbs of Bettendorf or more affordable parts of Davenport to make this work.

Can they afford to buy a home? It's challenging on a single CNA salary. The median home price in the Davenport area is around $160,000. With a 3.5% down payment ($5,600) and a 30-year mortgage at 6.5% interest, your monthly payment (including taxes and insurance) would be roughly $1,150. This is nearly 50% of your net income ($2,365), which is well above the recommended 30% threshold. Homeownership is possible with significant savings for a larger down payment, dual income (a partner who also works), or by targeting lower-priced homes in the $120,000-$130,000 range in specific neighborhoods. It's a long-term goal, not an immediate reality for most new CNAs.

Where the Jobs Are: Davenport's Major Employers

Davenport's healthcare scene is anchored by a handful of major players. The hiring trend is consistent but competitive; positions are filled quickly when they open. You'll need to be proactive and have your application materials ready.

1. Genesis Health System: This is the 800-pound gorilla of healthcare in the Quad Cities. They operate Genesis Medical Center - Davenport (a Level III Trauma Center) and numerous clinics and long-term care facilities. They are the largest employer of CNAs in the region. Hiring is constant for their medical-surgical units, ICU, and their network of nursing homes. Insider Tip: Apply directly on their careers page and also check for openings at their affiliated senior living communities like The Iowa Jewish Senior Life Center.

2. MercyOne Davenport Medical Center: Part of the national Trinity Health system, this hospital is a major competitor and employer. It has a strong reputation and often offers competitive benefits. They frequently hire for their inpatient units and have a dedicated rehabilitation wing that employs many CNAs. Insider Tip: MercyOne sometimes has a different pay scale than Genesis; it's worth applying to both to compare offers.

3. Davenport Nursing & Rehabilitation Center: A large, locally known skilled nursing facility (SNF). This is a classic CNA workplace with high turnover (typical for SNFs) meaning they are almost always hiring. It's a great place to gain solid, foundational experience in long-term care. The pace is demanding but you'll become proficient in care for chronic conditions.

4. The Iowa Jewish Senior Life Center (IJSLC): Located in a quiet, residential part of Davenport, this is a respected assisted living and skilled nursing community. The environment can feel more home-like and less institutional than a large hospital. They value tenure and often promote from within. Hiring is less frequent but more selective.

5. Senior Lifestyle of Davenport (and other local ALFs): There's a network of assisted living facilities in the area. These are excellent for CNAs who prefer a less acute, more social environment. The pay can be slightly lower than hospitals, but the stress levels and physical demands are often reduced. Check job boards for facilities like The Fountains, The Willows, and other local assisted living communities.

6. Local Home Health Agencies: Companies like BrightStar Care or Comfort Keepers have a presence in the Quad Cities. This is a different career path—working one-on-one in clients' homes. It offers more autonomy and a varied caseload but can have less consistent hours and fewer benefits. It's a good option for experienced CNAs looking for a change.

Getting Licensed in Iowa

Iowa has a straightforward but mandatory process. You cannot work as a CNA without being on the Iowa Nurse Aide Registry. If you're already certified in another state, you may be able to apply for reciprocity.

1. Complete an Approved Training Program: You must complete a state-approved nursing assistant training program. These are offered at community colleges (like Scott Community College in nearby Eldridge, a short drive from Davenport), technical schools, and some healthcare facilities. The course is typically 75 hours (classroom and lab).
2. Cost of Training: Tuition varies, but expect to pay between $600 and $1,200. Some employers, especially nursing homes, may offer a tuition reimbursement program if you commit to working for them for a set period (e.g., 6-12 months). This is a key insider strategy: get a job at a nursing home that offers this, and they'll pay for your training.
3. Take the Competency Exam: After completing your training, you must pass the state competency exam, which consists of a written/oral portion and a skills demonstration. The exam fee is approximately $100 - $125.
4. Get Listed on the Registry: Once you pass, your name is added to the Iowa Nurse Aide Registry. Employers will verify your status here. The entire process, from starting class to being on the registry, can take 2 to 4 months.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Location matters for both your commute and your budget. Davenport is a city of distinct neighborhoods.

1. The East Side (Near Genesis Medical Center):

   • Vibe: Older, established neighborhoods with a mix of single-family homes and apartments. Close to the hospital.
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to Genesis.
   • Rent Estimate: $650 - $800/month for a 1BR.
   • Insider Tip: This area is convenient but can feel a bit tired. Look for renovated apartments or consider a roommate in a larger house.

2. Northwest Davenport / The Gold Coast:

   • Vibe: More suburban feel, with larger homes and quiet streets. This is where many healthcare professionals and families live.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to major hospitals.
   • Rent Estimate: $800 - $950/month for a 1BR (slightly higher due to desirability).
   • Insider Tip: Offers a great quality of life if you can afford the slightly higher rent. Good access to shopping and parks.

3. The Village (East Davenport):

   • Vibe: Historic, upscale, and walkable. Full of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It's a lifestyle choice.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to MercyOne or Genesis.
   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,200/month for a 1BR (premium prices).
   • Insider Tip: While beautiful, it's one of the most expensive areas. Likely not feasible on a single CNA salary unless you have a significant other or roommate.

4. South Davenport (Near Duck Creek):

   • Vibe: Mix of older homes and newer apartments. Close to parks and the Duck Creek Parkway. More affordable than the north and east.
   • Commute: 10-20 minutes to hospitals.
   • Rent Estimate: $700 - $850/month for a 1BR.
   • Insider Tip: A solid, practical choice. It's a no-frills area that offers good value. Check the specific block, as some areas are better kept than others.

5. Bettendorf (Adjacent City):

   • Vibe: Generally more affluent and family-oriented than Davenport. Excellent schools and very safe.
   • Commute: 15-25 minutes to Davenport hospitals (depending on traffic).
   • Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,000/month for a 1BR.
   • Insider Tip: Many Davenport healthcare workers live in Bettendorf. The slightly longer commute is worth it for the quality of life for those with families. The job market is similar, but you'll work in Davenport.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-year job growth of 4% tells you this isn't a field with explosive expansion, but advancement comes from specialization and additional certifications.

• Specialty Certifications (Premiums): While not always a direct pay bump, these make you more competitive for higher-paying hospital roles.
  • CPR/BLS: Mandatory.
  • Patient Care Technician (PCT): Some hospitals use this title for CNAs with additional training (e.g., phlebotomy, EKG). It can lead to a slight pay increase ($1-2/hour more).
  • Restorative CNA: Certified to help patients with rehabilitation exercises. Valuable in nursing homes and rehab units.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Charge CNA / Lead CNA: In a hospital or nursing home, you can be promoted to oversee other CNAs on a shift. This comes with a small pay increase and leadership experience.
  2. Unit Coordinator / Health Unit Coordinator (HUC): Some CNAs transition to desk roles in hospitals, managing patient flow, orders, and communication. It's a different skill set but a natural progression.
  3. Bridge to LPN/RN: This is the most common and impactful path. Davenport has several excellent LPN and ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) programs at Scott Community College and Palmer College of Chiropractic's nursing program. Many employers offer tuition assistance. An LPN in Iowa can earn $47,000 - $55,000+, and an RN can earn $65,000 - $80,000+. This is the long-term financial play for many CNAs in the area.

10-Year Outlook: The need for CNAs will remain stable, driven by an aging population. The key differentiator will be experience and willingness to work in less desirable shifts (nights, weekends). Those who specialize or bridge to higher credentials will see the most significant income growth and job security.

The Verdict: Is Davenport Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Very low cost of living (Index 89.3). Your $34,612 salary goes far.	Below-average salary for the role compared to national data.
Stable, predictable job market with major employers like Genesis and MercyOne.	Limited high-growth career advancement without further education (LPN/RN).
Short commutes – most neighborhoods are within 15-20 minutes of hospitals.	The "Taco Bell" of Healthcare: You can live on the salary, but it's not a high-end lifestyle.
Access to affordable education for career advancement (Scott CC, Palmer).	Weather: Winters are long, cold, and gray, which can impact mood and commute.
Friendly, unpretentious Midwestern culture with a strong sense of local community.	Limited public transportation – a car is a necessity.

Final Recommendation:

Davenport is an excellent choice for a practical, stability-focused CNA. It's ideal if you are:

• Budget-conscious and want to live comfortably on a single income.
• Looking for reliable, long-term employment in a low-turnover healthcare system.
• Considering a bridge education to LPN or RN in the near future, leveraging local colleges and employer tuition assistance.

It is not the best choice if you are:

• Seeking the highest possible salary without further education.
• Looking for a vibrant, fast-paced city with a major nightlife scene (though the Quad Cities have more to offer than you might think).
• Completely reliant on public transportation.

Davenport rewards those who plan strategically. Live in South Davenport or with a roommate, get your foot in the door at Genesis or MercyOne, and use their benefits to further your education. In this scenario, you can build a comfortable, stable, and progressive career.

FAQs

Q: Is it easy to find a CNA job in Davenport with no experience?
A: Yes, especially in long-term care facilities (nursing homes). Large hospitals may prefer some experience, but they are the primary employers. Your best bet is to apply to a nursing home like Davenport Nursing & Rehabilitation to get your required experience, then transition to a hospital after 6-12 months.

Q: What is the weather really like, and how does it affect healthcare shifts?
A: Winters are harsh, with significant snow and ice. This means your commute, especially on night shift, requires a reliable car and driving skills. Hospitals run 24/7, so you will work all weather. Budget for a good winter coat and possibly snow tires. The upside is that summers are beautiful and warm.

Q: Are there opportunities for part-time or weekend-only shifts?
A: Absolutely. Healthcare is a 24/7 industry. Weekends