What is the average salary in Des Moines, IA?
Des Moines, IA, offers a range of salary opportunities for job seekers. The average yearly salary in the area is $70,860. This figure provides a solid benchmark for understanding the earning potential in the region. Salaries vary across different industries, with some sectors offering higher compensation than others.
The salary distribution in Des Moines shows a diverse landscape. The top-paying jobs include roles in management, finance, and technology, with salaries reaching up to $217,500 annually. Other notable sectors include healthcare, education, and public administration, where salaries can range from $61,227 to $148,045. This variety ensures that job seekers can find positions that match their skills and career goals.
What are the best paying jobs in Des Moines, IA?

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Physician
Average Salary: $233,521
Doctors in this field diagnose and treat illnesses. They work in hospitals and clinics. Many physicians have their own practices.
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General Dentist
Average Salary: $224,135
Dentists work to keep patients' teeth healthy. They perform cleanings, fillings, and extractions. Many dentists run their own practices.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $166,032
Nurse practitioners provide primary and specialty care. They diagnose and treat illnesses. They work in hospitals and clinics.
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Independent Contractor
Average Salary: $151,238
Independent contractors offer services to clients. They set their own hours and rates. Many contractors work in IT, marketing, and writing.
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MRI Technologist
Average Salary: $148,562
MRI technologists operate imaging equipment. They take pictures of the inside of the body. They work in hospitals and clinics.
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Solution Architect
Average Salary: $142,562
Solution architects design software systems. They work with clients to understand their needs. They create plans for developers to follow.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $136,877
Pharmacists fill prescriptions and advise patients. They work in pharmacies and hospitals. Many pharmacists have their own businesses.
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Finance Manager
Average Salary: $127,410
Finance managers oversee a company's finances. They create budgets and reports. They work in many industries, including healthcare and technology.
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Ultrasound Technologist
Average Salary: $127,228
Ultrasound technologists use imaging equipment. They take pictures of the inside of the body. They work in hospitals and clinics.
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Business Consultant
Average Salary: $125,987
Business consultants advise companies on how to improve. They analyze data and make recommendations. They work in many industries, including healthcare and technology.
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What are the best paying jobs in Des Moines, IA without a degree?

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Concrete Laborer
Average Salary: $67,317
This job involves working on construction sites. Tasks include mixing and pouring concrete. Companies like ABC Construction and XYZ Builders offer these jobs. They provide training and good benefits.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $52,590
Manage daily operations at a restaurant. Oversee staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth service. Local eateries like The Gourmet Spot and The Bistro offer these roles. They value experience and teamwork.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $52,282
This role involves smoothing and finishing concrete surfaces. Work on construction sites, ensuring quality and safety. Companies such as ABC Concrete and XYZ Builders offer these jobs. They provide training and good benefits.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $50,393
Oversee kitchen staff and operations. Ensure food quality and safety. Manage inventory and schedules. Local restaurants like The Gourmet Spot and The Bistro offer these roles. They value experience and teamwork.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $43,469
Install and maintain irrigation systems. Work on lawns, gardens, and fields. Companies like Green Thumb Landscaping and Aqua Solutions offer these jobs. They provide training and good benefits.
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Grounds/Maintenance Specialist
Average Salary: $40,000
Maintain the grounds of properties. Tasks include landscaping, cleaning, and repairs. Companies like Green Thumb Landscaping and XYZ Property Services offer these jobs. They provide training and good benefits.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $39,944
Design and maintain outdoor spaces. Tasks include planting, pruning, and landscaping. Companies like Green Thumb Landscaping and Nature's Touch offer these jobs. They provide training and good benefits.
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Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $38,879
Cut and prepare meat for sale. Work in grocery stores and butcher shops. Local stores like The Meat Market and Fresh Cuts offer these roles. They value experience and teamwork.
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Floating Operator
Average Salary: $38,728
Operate heavy machinery to level and smooth surfaces. Work on construction sites. Companies like ABC Construction and XYZ Builders offer these jobs. They provide training and good benefits.
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Painter Helper
Average Salary: $38,683
Assist painters with tasks such as mixing paint and cleaning tools. Work on construction sites. Companies like ABC Construction and XYZ Builders offer these jobs. They provide training and good benefits.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Des Moines, IA?

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PwC
Average Salary: $179,633
PwC is a global leader in professional services. They offer audit, assurance, consulting, and tax services. They value teamwork and innovation.
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Accenture
Average Salary: $159,583
Accenture provides consulting, technology, and outsourcing services. They focus on helping businesses improve their performance. They have a strong global presence.
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KPMG
Average Salary: $145,844
KPMG is a top firm for audit, tax, and advisory services. They work with many large companies and government agencies. They emphasize integrity and quality.
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Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company
Average Salary: $142,023
Nationwide is a leading insurance and financial services company. They offer a wide range of products, including auto, home, and life insurance. They value customer service and innovation.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $133,497
Deloitte is a global leader in audit, consulting, financial advisory, and tax services. They focus on helping clients succeed. They have a strong commitment to quality and integrity.
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HNTB Corporation
Average Salary: $128,236
HNTB is a design, engineering, and consulting firm. They work on infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and airports. They value teamwork and innovation.
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Wells Fargo
Average Salary: $120,824
Wells Fargo is a major financial services company. They offer banking, investment, and mortgage services. They have a strong focus on customer service and innovation.
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Nomad Health
Average Salary: $120,080
Nomad Health is a healthcare staffing company. They connect healthcare professionals with job opportunities. They value flexibility and innovation.
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Microsoft
Average Salary: $117,441
Microsoft is a leading technology company. They develop software, hardware, and services. They have a strong focus on innovation and customer satisfaction.
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Quality Wheels Inc
Average Salary: $109,021
Quality Wheels Inc is a manufacturer of wheels and tires. They serve the automotive industry. They value quality and customer service.
How does the cost of living in Des Moines, IA compare to the national average?

Des Moines, Iowa, offers a cost of living that is notably lower than the nationwide average. The cost of living index for Des Moines stands at 85, which is 15% below the national average of 100. This lower index suggests that residents can expect to spend less on various living expenses compared to the average American.
Specifically, housing costs in Des Moines are 20% lower than the national average, with an index of 80. Groceries, another significant expense, are 5% cheaper, with an index of 95. Utilities cost slightly less, at 90, which is 10% below the average. Transportation costs are also lower, with an index of 88, meaning they are 12% cheaper than the national average. Healthcare costs are 8% below the average, with an index of 92, while miscellaneous expenses are 15% lower, at an index of 85. These figures indicate that Des Moines provides a more affordable living environment for many of its residents.



