Salaries in Davenport, IA

Here’s the thing about Davenport: you can make a six-figure salary here and feel genuinely rich. With the median household income sitting at $69,595, a software developer earning $123,174 isn’t just comfortable—they’re living in a different financial universe than the national average suggests.

The math is what makes this city compelling. Davenport’s cost of living index is 89.3, meaning your dollar stretches about 11% further than the U.S. average. That $773 one-bedroom rent isn’t a typo; it’s a reality that makes a $67,230 average salary feel more like $75,285 in real purchasing power. For someone in marketing management pulling in a COL-adjusted $170,840, this place is a steal. You’re not just getting by—you’re building wealth at a pace that would be impossible in most major metros.

This isn’t a boomtown, but it’s a steady one. The Quad Cities region has deep roots in manufacturing and agriculture, and you’ll find major employers like John Deere and regional healthcare systems anchoring the job market. The 2.8% unemployment rate tells you labor demand is solid, even if the city’s 31.5% bachelor’s degree rate is below the national average. The trades and skilled professional roles are where the real money is.

But here’s my honest take: while salaries look good on paper, wage growth has been modest. The city’s affordability is its real draw, not explosive opportunity. It’s perfect for remote workers who want a lower overhead, or for professionals in healthcare, tech, or project management who can command top local pay. If you’re looking for cutthroat career ladders or startup culture, you won’t find it here.

The data below breaks down who’s earning what, and what your life might actually look like on those numbers.