Overview Salaries

Salaries in Des Moines, IA

Updated on Mar 10, 2026
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Salary

What is the average salary in Des Moines, IA?

The average salary in Des Moines, IA is $73,606 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Des Moines, IA, showing an average salary of $73,606 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Des Moines, IA, showing an average salary of $6,134 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Des Moines, IA, showing an average salary of $1,416 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Des Moines, IA, showing an average salary of $35 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Des Moines offers a range of salary options across various industries. Many professionals can find competitive pay in the city. The average yearly salary stands at $73,606, providing a decent income for most workers. This figure reflects the diversity of job opportunities available.


The salary distribution in Des Moines shows a broad spread. The majority of professionals earn between $43,864 and $113,318 per year. Some key industries offer higher salaries. For instance, those in top management or specialized fields can earn significantly more. The highest earners in Des Moines reach up to $217,500 annually. This range indicates that skill and experience can lead to substantial rewards.

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What are the best paying jobs in Des Moines, IA?

Des Moines offers a variety of high-paying job opportunities for skilled professionals. Leading the pack is the Owner Operator role, with an average salary of around $308,534. Other top earners include General Dentists and Physicians, both earning over $200,000 annually. These jobs provide not only competitive pay but also a chance to make a significant impact in your chosen field. Apart from these top roles, Nurse Practitioners, MRI Technologists, and Pharmacists also see attractive salaries in Des Moines. These positions offer stability and the chance to work in a thriving community. Business Consultants and Finance Managers also earn well, with salaries averaging over $130,000. These roles demand strong skills and experience, but they offer rewarding careers with excellent pay.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Des Moines, IA, highlighting Owner Operator with the highest at $308,534 and Business Consultant with the lowest at $132,353.

  1. Owner Operator
    Average Salary: $308,534
    Drive your own vehicle and sell goods or services. Companies like FedEx and local transport firms offer this role. Enjoy flexible hours and the freedom to manage your own business.
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  2. General Dentist
    Average Salary: $240,745
    Diagnose and treat dental issues for patients. Work in private practices or dental clinics. Companies like Heartland Dental provide a stable environment.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Des Moines, IA


  3. Physician
    Average Salary: $236,752
    Diagnose and treat illnesses, perform medical exams. Join clinics or hospitals. Local firms offer competitive benefits and a chance to make a difference.
    Find Physician jobs in Des Moines, IA


  4. Nurse Practitioner
    Average Salary: $163,571
    Provide primary and specialty care to patients. Work in hospitals or clinics. Companies like UnityPoint Health offer growth and support.
    Find Nurse Practitioner jobs in Des Moines, IA


  5. Independent Contractor
    Average Salary: $149,674
    Perform specific tasks for clients on a contract basis. Freelance opportunities in various fields are common. Build your own client base and set your schedule.
    Find Independent Contractor jobs in Des Moines, IA


  6. MRI Technologist
    Average Salary: $148,248
    Operate MRI machines to help diagnose medical conditions. Work in hospitals or diagnostic centers. Companies provide training and support for new hires.
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  7. Solution Architect
    Average Salary: $145,768
    Design software solutions to meet business needs. Work with tech firms and startups. Companies in Des Moines value innovation and teamwork.
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  8. Finance Manager
    Average Salary: $144,213
    Oversee financial operations and budgeting. Work in corporate settings or financial firms. Companies offer career development and stability.
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  9. Pharmacist
    Average Salary: $140,666
    Distribute medications and provide health advice. Work in retail pharmacies or hospitals. Local companies offer a supportive environment.
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  10. Business Consultant
    Average Salary: $132,353
    Help businesses improve their performance. Work with various companies to solve problems and develop strategies. Firms in Des Moines seek experienced consultants.
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What are the best paying jobs in Des Moines, IA without a degree?

Job seekers in Des Moines, IA, looking for top-paying roles without a degree will find several attractive options. Jobs such as Canvasser, Concrete Laborer, and Restaurant Manager offer competitive salaries. These positions provide the opportunity to earn a solid income while gaining valuable work experience. High-paying jobs in Des Moines include roles like Concrete Finisher and Kitchen Manager. Both jobs pay above $50,000 a year. Other positions, such as Irrigation Technician and Grounds/Maintenance Specialist, also offer good pay. These roles are ideal for those seeking financial stability and career advancement without formal education.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Des Moines, IA without a degree, highlighting Canvasser with the highest at $60,463 and Meat Cutter with the lowest at $39,121.

  1. Canvasser
    Average Salary: $60,463
    Canvassers promote products or services on behalf of local companies. This role involves a lot of walking and talking to potential customers. It can be a rewarding job with commissions or hourly wages. Local businesses often need canvassers for their campaigns.
    Find Canvasser jobs in Des Moines, IA


  2. Concrete Laborer
    Average Salary: $58,833
    Concrete laborers work on construction sites, mixing and pouring concrete for structures. This physical job requires teamwork and attention to detail. Opportunities exist with local construction firms. It is an essential role in building the city's infrastructure.
    Find Concrete Laborer jobs in Des Moines, IA


  3. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $53,338
    Restaurant managers oversee daily operations in food service establishments. They ensure customer satisfaction and manage staff. This role involves working with local eateries and chains. It requires strong leadership and customer service skills.
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  4. Concrete Finisher
    Average Salary: $52,993
    Concrete finishers spread, smooth, and finish concrete on construction sites. They use various tools to shape and form the concrete. This skilled job often works with local construction crews. It is a key part of the building process.
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  5. Kitchen Manager
    Average Salary: $46,908
    Kitchen managers handle kitchen operations in dining establishments. They coordinate staff, maintain food quality, and ensure efficiency. This role is crucial for local restaurants and cafes. It requires good organizational and multitasking abilities.
    Find Kitchen Manager jobs in Des Moines, IA


  6. Irrigation Technician
    Average Salary: $45,200
    Irrigation technicians install and maintain watering systems for lawns and gardens. They ensure that plants receive the right amount of water. This job works with landscaping companies and homeowners. It involves both outdoor work and technical skills.
    Find Irrigation Technician jobs in Des Moines, IA


  7. Grounds/Maintenance Specialist
    Average Salary: $40,000
    Grounds and maintenance specialists handle upkeep of properties. They perform tasks like lawn care, snow removal, and general maintenance. This role is vital for local businesses and residential areas. It includes physical labor and attention to detail.
    Find Grounds/Maintenance Specialist jobs in Des Moines, IA


  8. Painter Helper
    Average Salary: $39,953
    Painter helpers assist professional painters in various tasks. They prepare surfaces, mix paint, and clean up. This job works with local painting contractors. It is a great entry-level position for those interested in the trades.
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  9. Landscaper
    Average Salary: $39,792
    Landscapers design and maintain outdoor spaces. They plant flowers, trees, and shrubs. This job involves working with local landscaping businesses. It requires creativity and a love for outdoor work.
    Find Landscaper jobs in Des Moines, IA


  10. Meat Cutter
    Average Salary: $39,121
    Meat cutters work in grocery stores and butcher shops. They slice, package, and display meat products. This job requires attention to detail and hygiene. It is a steady role in the food retail industry.
    Find Meat Cutter jobs in Des Moines, IA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Des Moines, IA?

Job seekers in Des Moines, IA, will find competitive salaries at top companies like PwC, Accenture, and KPMG. These companies offer average annual salaries above $150,000, making them attractive options for professionals seeking higher pay. Other notable companies such as Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Deloitte also provide salaries over $130,000 per year.
Graph displaying company salaries in Des Moines, IA, highlighting PwC with the highest at $182,202 and Quality Wheels Inc with the lowest at $108,996.

  1. PwC
    Average Salary: $182,202
    PwC is a global leader in professional services, offering audit, assurance, consulting, and tax services. It values innovation and integrity.


  2. Accenture
    Average Salary: $164,676
    Accenture provides strategy, consulting, digital, technology, and operations services. It is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion.


  3. KPMG
    Average Salary: $151,252
    KPMG offers audit, tax, and advisory services. It emphasizes building trust through strength, independence, and collaboration.


  4. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company
    Average Salary: $143,422
    Nationwide is a leading provider of insurance and financial services. It focuses on innovation and customer service.


  5. Deloitte
    Average Salary: $138,571
    Deloitte offers audit, tax, consulting, and financial advisory services. It aims to create value for its clients and society.


  6. Microsoft
    Average Salary: $124,231
    Microsoft develops software products, cloud services, and devices. It is known for its innovation and commitment to accessibility.


  7. Nomad Health
    Average Salary: $120,895
    Nomad Health connects healthcare organizations with travel healthcare professionals. It aims to improve access to quality care.


  8. Wells Fargo
    Average Salary: $120,127
    Wells Fargo offers banking, investment, and mortgage services. It is committed to financial well-being and social responsibility.


  9. gpac
    Average Salary: $113,166
    gpac is a staffing and recruiting agency. It specializes in placing talent in various industries.


  10. Quality Wheels Inc
    Average Salary: $108,996
    Quality Wheels Inc manufactures and distributes wheels. It focuses on quality and customer satisfaction.

How does the cost of living in Des Moines, IA compare to the national average?

Des Moines, IA has a cost of living index below the nationwide average. Specifically, the index stands at 92, which is 8% lower than the national benchmark of 100. Housing costs in Des Moines are notably lower, coming in at 83, a 17% decrease from the national average. However, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous items remain close to the national average, ranging from 90 to 95. This balanced cost of living suggests that Des Moines offers a potentially more affordable lifestyle for job seekers compared to many other areas. With housing being significantly cheaper, individuals can allocate more funds to other living expenses and still maintain a comfortable standard of living.
Cost of living comparison graph for Des Moines, IA vs. Nationwide: housing 17% lower, groceries 5% lower, utilities 5% lower, transportation 8% lower, healthcare 0% lower, miscellaneous 10% lower.

Des Moines, IA, offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to the nationwide average. Housing costs in Des Moines are 17% lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those looking to save on their living expenses. The cost of groceries in Des Moines stands at 95, very close to the national average, suggesting minimal variance in the price of food items.


Utilities in Des Moines are also nearly on par with the national average, with a 5% difference. Transportation costs are slightly lower, at 92, which means residents can save about 8% compared to the nationwide average. Healthcare costs are the same as the national average at 100, indicating no significant difference in healthcare expenses. Miscellaneous costs, however, are 10% lower in Des Moines, presenting an opportunity for savings in various other areas. Overall, Des Moines offers a cost of living that is 8% lower than the national average, which could be beneficial for job seekers and residents alike.

There are 3,163 job openings in Des Moines, IA, today!

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Des Moines, IA
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