Average Nursing Assistants Salary in Ames, IA
Nursing Assistants in Ames, IA, command an average annual salary of $41,400, slightly surpassing the national average of $41,050. This marginal increase is often influenced by local demand dynamics and the specific healthcare needs within the Ames community, contributing to a competitive compensation landscape for these essential healthcare professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $41,400 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 35.7% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $47,290.
- Outlook: Ames, IA, presents a robust job market for Nursing Assistants, evidenced by a substantial local workforce of 760 individuals. The Location Quotient of 1.5 indicates a significantly higher concentration of these roles compared to the national average, suggesting strong and sustained demand for nursing assistant services within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Nursing Assistants in Ames, IA earns+0.9%above the national average.
$19.9
$796
$3,450
Nursing Assistants Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that the demand for Nursing Assistants in Ames, IA, has seen consistent growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth likely translates to incremental salary increases, reflecting the increasing importance and demand for skilled healthcare support personnel.
Nursing Assistants Salary Distribution in Ames, IA
Career progression for Nursing Assistants in Ames, IA, typically involves a salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile, while senior Nursing Assistants with extensive experience and specialized skills can command salaries in the higher percentiles, reflecting a clear career trajectory and earning potential within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $37,660 | $18.1 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $31,050 | $14.9 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $39,110 | $18.8 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $51,750 | $24.9 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $47,290 | $22.7 |
Detailed Nursing Assistants Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$41,400
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$41,400
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $41,400 in Ames, IA, offers excellent purchasing power. With a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is precisely the national average, this salary allows Nursing Assistants to maintain a lifestyle comparable to the national standard without facing additional financial pressures related to higher living expenses.
Job Market Context
760
Total Jobs
13.474
Per 1K Jobs
1.5
Location Quotient
Ames, IA has 1.5x the national concentration of Nursing Assistants jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
The Location Quotient of 1.5 for Nursing Assistants in Ames, IA, signifies a job market where these professionals are 50% more concentrated than the national average. This suggests a healthy demand and potentially a more competitive environment for employers seeking to fill these roles, while also indicating ample opportunities for job seekers.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Nursing Assistants
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Nursing Assistants Salary | $39,510↓ 5% | 21 mi |
| Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Nursing Assistants Salary | $40,240↓ 3% | 21 mi |
| Northeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Nursing Assistants Salary | $39,780↓ 4% | 21 mi |
| Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Nursing Assistants Salary | $39,210↓ 5% | 21 mi |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA Nursing Assistants Salary | $42,320↑ 2% | 31 mi |
Comparing salaries near Ames, IA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Nursing Assistants make in Ames, IA?
The median annual salary for a Nursing Assistants in Ames, IA is $41,400. This typically ranges from $37,660 for entry-level positions to $47,290 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Ames, IA is 0.9% higher than the national median of $41,050.
Is Ames, IA a lucrative place for Nursing Assistants?
Yes, Ames, IA offers competitive compensation for Nursing Assistants.With an average salary slightly above the national average and a cost of living that matches it, Ames provides good financial standing for Nursing Assistants.
Is Ames, IA a good place to live for Nursing Assistants?
The Cost of Living Index in Ames, IA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Ames, IA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area ($39,510) and Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area.
How does the number of Nursing Assistants in Ames compare nationally?
Ames, IA has 13.474 Nursing Assistants per 1,000 workers, indicating a notable presence in the local labor market.
What is the significance of the Location Quotient (LQ) for Nursing Assistants in Ames?
An LQ of 1.5 means Nursing Assistants are 50% more concentrated in Ames than the national average, signaling strong local demand and a potentially robust job market for this profession.
Does experience impact a Nursing Assistant's salary in Ames, IA?
Yes, typically, more experienced Nursing Assistants in Ames can expect to earn higher salaries, moving into higher pay percentiles as their expertise grows.
How does the cost of living in Ames affect the Nursing Assistant salary?
The cost of living in Ames is exactly at the national average (100), meaning the $41,400 salary provides purchasing power equivalent to the national median, making it a stable financial environment.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 760 employees in the Ames, IA area with a job density of 13.474 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Nursing Assistants • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Ames, IA