Certified Nursing Assistant Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Des Moines, Iowa$31,280 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Certified Nursing Assistant Jobs in Des Moines

Looking for a Certified Nursing Assistant job in Des Moines? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Des Moines, IA.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Des Moines has a strong job market for Certified Nursing Assistants. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Certified Nursing Assistant Salary in Des Moines

Entry Level
$21,896
Median
$31,280
Senior Level
$42,320

Certified Nursing Assistant salaries in Des Moines are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Des Moines is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Patient CareVital SignsADL AssistanceCommunicationDocumentation

Certified Nursing Assistant Job Market in Des Moines

Des Moines, IA is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistant professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Des Moines offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. The city's strong Insurance and Finance sectors create robust demand for Certified Nursing Assistant talent. The market for Certified Nursing Assistant positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Certified Nursing Assistants in Des Moines

Local hospital systemsRegional healthcare networksPrivate medical groups

Major employers hiring Certified Nursing Assistants in Des Moines include Local hospital systems, Regional healthcare networks, Private medical groups. With major hospital systems and research institutions, Des Moines offers excellent opportunities for healthcare professionals at all career stages. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Certified Nursing Assistants in Des Moines

Living in Des Moines as a Certified Nursing Assistant means navigating a cost of living that's close to the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Certified Nursing Assistant salary, rent would consume about 69% of gross income - above the recommended 30% threshold. Consider roommates or suburban options. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

92
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a Certified Nursing Assistant in Des Moines

Des Moines Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Certified Nursing Assistants in Des Moines: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Certified Nursing Assistant professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Iowa

Iowa has relatively high state income taxes. A Certified Nursing Assistant earning $31,280 might pay approximately $2,502 in state income tax. However, Iowa's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Certified Nursing Assistants

The job outlook for Certified Nursing Assistants in Des Moines is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Des Moines offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Patient Care, Vital Signs, ADL Assistance, Communication.

Relocating to Des Moines

Des Moines's affordable cost of living means your Certified Nursing Assistant salary will stretch further than in major coastal cities. Many professionals relocate here for better quality of life. Iowa has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Certified Nursing Assistant salary in Des Moines, IA?

The average Certified Nursing Assistant salary in Des Moines, IA is $31,280 per year. Entry-level Certified Nursing Assistants typically start around $21,896, while experienced professionals can earn $42,320 or more. The national average for Certified Nursing Assistant roles is $34,000.

How many Certified Nursing Assistant jobs are available in Des Moines?

Des Moines has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Certified Nursing Assistant professionals. Major employers hiring Certified Nursing Assistants include Local hospital systems, Regional healthcare networks, Private medical groups. The Insurance and Finance sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Des Moines a good city for Certified Nursing Assistants?

Des Moines is an solid choice for Certified Nursing Assistants. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The affordable cost of living means salaries go further than in more expensive markets. The city's insurance industry creates strong demand for healthcare professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Certified Nursing Assistants in Des Moines?

Top skills for Certified Nursing Assistants in Des Moines include Patient Care, Vital Signs, ADL Assistance, Communication, Documentation. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Certified Nursing Assistants in Des Moines?

Des Moines's cost of living is near the national average (92% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Des Moines is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Certified Nursing Assistants in Des Moines?

Des Moines Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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