Manufacturing is Muscatine’s engine. According to census data, the industry accounts for over a third of the city’s laborforce, nearly 4,100. And the jobs pay well. A typical production worker makes about $75,000. Considering a typical home costs just $115,000, city leaders say Muscatine is a good place to earn a living. “There’s always room for opportunities,” the Mayor Brad Bark said. “Housing is No. 1, I would say.” That would help meet a growing demand with the city’s largest employer, HNI. “It’s a big deal. They’re our largest employer, employing about 3,700 in our city limits. After sitting down and talking with them, they need more workforce in Muscatine. It’s a big deal.”