Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Iowa
Based on 23K+ workers in Iowa
Median Annual Salary (IA)
$39,350
$18.92/hr
vs National Average
$41,812
-5.9% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$36K – $48K
23K employed in Iowa
The median Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Iowa is $39,350 per year, which translates to approximately $19 per hour. This figure is 5.9% lower than the national average, reflecting localized economic conditions and demand within the state.
Several factors can influence a Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Iowa. These include the specific healthcare facility, the individual's years of experience, and any additional certifications they may hold. Location within Iowa can also play a role, with larger metropolitan areas potentially offering higher wages.
Salary Distribution — Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Iowa
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $35,620 |
| 25th percentile | $37,360 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $39,350 |
| 75th percentile | $45,650 |
| 90th percentile | $47,980 |
Top-Paying Industries for Nursing Assistant (CNA) (U.S.)
Which industries pay Nursing Assistant (CNA)s the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Nursing Assistant (CNA)s in Iowa tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Finance and Insurance | $60,710 | 40 |
| Administrative and Support Services | $47,810 | 49K |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $47,050 | 47K |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $46,920 | 430 |
| Wholesale Trade | $46,540 | — |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Iowa vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Iowa) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $39,350 |
| 2026 (projected) | $40,531 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Iowa Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $39,350 | $41,812 |
| 2026 (projected) | $40,531 | $43,066 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary by Experience Level in Iowa
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $37,360 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $39,350 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $45,650 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $47,980 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Other States
Related Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salaries in Iowa
How other high-demand occupations in Iowa compare to Nursing Assistant (CNA) ($39,350 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency Medicine Physician in IA | $429,050 | +990.3% | $206.27/hr |
| Radiologist in IA | $405,220 | +929.8% | $194.82/hr |
| Surgeon in IA | $370,390 | +841.3% | $178.07/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in IA | $356,020 | +804.8% | $171.16/hr |
| Psychiatrist in IA | $295,270 | +650.4% | $141.96/hr |
| Cardiologist in IA | $283,070 | +619.4% | $136.09/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in IA | $273,070 | +594.0% | $131.28/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in IA | $265,200 | +574.0% | $127.50/hr |
| Pediatrician in IA | $262,440 | +566.9% | $126.17/hr |
| Dentist in IA | $181,520 | +361.3% | $87.27/hr |
| Pharmacist in IA | $138,860 | +252.9% | $66.76/hr |
| Podiatrist in IA | $134,830 | +242.6% | $64.82/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Iowa?
- The salary range for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Iowa generally falls between $35,620 and $47,980 annually. This indicates that while the median is $39,350, there's a considerable spread based on various influencing factors.
How does the average hourly wage for a CNA in Iowa compare to the national average?
- The average hourly wage for a Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Iowa is around $19 per hour. This is notably lower than the national average, with Iowa CNAs earning approximately 5.9% less.
How many Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are employed in Iowa?
- Iowa is home to a significant number of employed Nursing Assistants (CNAs), with a total of 22,670 individuals in this role. This highlights the substantial need for these healthcare professionals across the state.
Is the Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Iowa competitive?
- While the median Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Iowa is $39,350 per year, which is below the national average, the actual compensation can vary. With a typical range of $35,620 to $47,980, experienced CNAs in certain facilities might find competitive pay.