Server Salary in Des Moines, IA

Updated on May 09, 2025
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How much does a Server make in Des Moines, IA?

The average salary for a Server is $36,662 per year in Des Moines, IA.

In Des Moines, IA, servers can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average annual salary for a server in this area is around $36,662. This figure can vary based on experience and the specific restaurant or establishment. Servers often start at the lower end of the salary range, but with time and experience, they can move up to higher pay brackets.

Factors that influence a server's salary include tips, the type of establishment, and the number of hours worked. Servers in high-end restaurants or those with a large clientele can earn more due to higher tips. Additionally, working during peak hours or busy seasons can increase earnings. It's also common for servers to receive benefits such as health insurance and paid time off, which can add to the overall compensation package.

Server jobs in Des Moines, IA

What are the highest paying cities for a Server near Des Moines, IA?

Job seekers looking for server positions near Des Moines, IA, can find competitive pay in nearby cities. Johnston, IA, offers the highest average salary at $44,574. This makes it a prime location for those seeking better compensation. Other cities like Ankeny, IA, and Clinton, IA, also provide attractive salary options.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Server jobs near Des Moines, IA, highlighting Johnston, IA with the highest at $44,574 and West Des Moines, IA with the lowest at $32,931.
  1. Johnston, IA
    Average Salary: $44,574
    In Johnston, IA, working as a server offers a welcoming atmosphere with a variety of dining options. Many restaurants here focus on family-friendly menus, providing a steady flow of customers. Opportunities exist in both casual and fine dining establishments.
    Find Server jobs in Johnston, IA


  2. Ankeny, IA
    Average Salary: $37,568
    Ankeny, IA, is a vibrant city with a growing food scene. Servers here enjoy a dynamic work environment with a mix of local eateries and chain restaurants. The community's love for good food makes it a great place to build a career in hospitality.
    Find Server jobs in Ankeny, IA


  3. Clinton, IA
    Average Salary: $35,815
    Clinton, IA, offers a charming setting for those in the service industry. The city's restaurants value a warm and friendly service style. Servers can expect to work in a close-knit community where customer satisfaction is key.
    Find Server jobs in Clinton, IA


  4. Mason City, IA
    Average Salary: $35,102
    Mason City, IA, provides a laid-back atmosphere for servers. The local dining scene includes a mix of traditional and modern cuisine. Servers here enjoy a slower pace, allowing for strong connections with customers.
    Find Server jobs in Mason City, IA


  5. Marshalltown, IA
    Average Salary: $34,138
    In Marshalltown, IA, servers find a supportive community with a variety of dining options. The city's restaurants often feature local ingredients, making the job both enjoyable and educational. A friendly environment helps servers thrive.
    Find Server jobs in Marshalltown, IA


  6. Muscatine, IA
    Average Salary: $33,775
    Muscatine, IA, offers a welcoming environment for servers. The city's dining scene includes a range of casual and upscale restaurants. Servers here benefit from a community that values hospitality and good service.
    Find Server jobs in Muscatine, IA


  7. Waterloo, IA
    Average Salary: $33,574
    Waterloo, IA, provides a diverse dining experience for servers. The city's restaurants offer a mix of international and local cuisines. Servers can expect a dynamic work environment with a variety of customers and menu options.
    Find Server jobs in Waterloo, IA


  8. Urbandale, IA
    Average Salary: $33,368
    Urbandale, IA, is a bustling city with a vibrant food culture. Servers here work in a fast-paced environment with a diverse clientele. The city's many restaurants offer a range of opportunities for those in the service industry.
    Find Server jobs in Urbandale, IA


  9. Fort Dodge, IA
    Average Salary: $33,272
    Fort Dodge, IA, offers a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for servers. The local dining scene includes a mix of family-owned and chain restaurants. Servers here enjoy a supportive community and a steady flow of customers.
    Find Server jobs in Fort Dodge, IA


  10. West Des Moines, IA
    Average Salary: $32,931
    West Des Moines, IA, provides a dynamic environment for servers. The city's restaurants offer a variety of cuisines and dining experiences. Servers can expect to work in a lively setting with a diverse customer base.
    Find Server jobs in West Des Moines, IA

What are the best paying companies for a Server in Des Moines, IA?

Job seekers looking for server positions in Des Moines, IA, can find competitive salaries at Homegrown and Parlor. These companies offer some of the highest pay in the area, with Homegrown leading at $58,947 annually. Parlor follows closely with a salary of $50,740 per year, making both excellent choices for those seeking good compensation.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Server jobs in Des Moines, IA, highlighting Homegrown with the highest at $58,947 and Buffalo Wild Wings with the lowest at $28,043.
  1. Homegrown
    Average Salary: $58,947
    Homegrown offers competitive salaries for Server jobs. They focus on fresh, local ingredients and have locations in Des Moines and surrounding areas. Servers here enjoy a vibrant atmosphere and the chance to work in a well-regarded restaurant.


  2. Parlor
    Average Salary: $50,740
    Parlor provides a welcoming environment for Servers. They are known for their unique menu and cozy setting. With locations in Des Moines, Servers here can expect a friendly team and a chance to grow in a dynamic environment.


  3. Eatery A
    Average Salary: $50,000
    Eatery A offers a stable salary for Server positions. They serve a variety of dishes and have locations in Des Moines. Servers here benefit from a supportive team and a chance to work in a popular dining spot.


  4. Full Court Press
    Average Salary: $50,000
    Full Court Press provides a good salary for Server jobs. They focus on sports-themed dining and have locations in Des Moines. Servers here enjoy a lively atmosphere and the chance to work in a well-known restaurant.


  5. Applebee's
    Average Salary: $40,000
    Applebee's offers a solid salary for Servers. They have a casual dining experience and multiple locations in Des Moines. Servers here can expect a friendly environment and the chance to work in a popular chain restaurant.


  6. WesleyLife
    Average Salary: $34,616
    WesleyLife provides a decent salary for Server positions. They focus on serving seniors and have locations in Des Moines. Servers here benefit from a caring environment and the chance to work in a respected organization.


  7. TUPELO HONEY
    Average Salary: $32,446
    TUPELO HONEY offers a fair salary for Servers. They serve Southern-inspired dishes and have locations in Des Moines. Servers here enjoy a warm atmosphere and the chance to work in a well-regarded restaurant.


  8. UnityPoint Health
    Average Salary: $31,382
    UnityPoint Health provides a competitive salary for Server jobs. They focus on healthcare dining and have locations in Des Moines. Servers here benefit from a supportive team and the chance to work in a respected organization.


  9. GAMEDAY
    Average Salary: $28,377
    GAMEDAY offers a good salary for Servers. They serve sports-themed food and have locations in Des Moines. Servers here enjoy a lively atmosphere and the chance to work in a popular dining spot.


  10. Buffalo Wild Wings
    Average Salary: $28,043
    Buffalo Wild Wings provides a fair salary for Server positions. They focus on sports bar dining and have multiple locations in Des Moines. Servers here benefit from a fun environment and the chance to work in a well-known chain restaurant.

Currently 24,699 Server job openings, nationwide.

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Server
24,699 Job Openings