Chemist Salary in Des Moines, Iowa
The median chemist salary in Des Moines, IA is $76,167 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 3.4% above the Iowa state average.
Chemist Pay in Des Moines: What to Expect (2026)
Des Moines offers a median chemist salary of $76,167, which is $2,484 above the Iowa state average of $73,683. Compared to the national median of $82,790, Des Moines pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Des Moines's cost of living is 92% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for chemists in Des Moines spans from $44,160 at the 10th percentile to $130,640 at the 90th percentile — a $86,480 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $46,000, while senior chemists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $124,200. With a population of 214,133, Des Moines is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chemist Salary in Des Moines by Experience
In Des Moines, an entry-level chemist earns around $46,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $124,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Des Moines, IA
| Percentile | Des Moines |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $44,160 |
| 25th Percentile | $57,040 |
| Median (50th) | $76,167 |
| 75th Percentile | $100,280 |
| 90th Percentile | $130,640 |
Chemist Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a Chemist in Des Moines
Education
Most chemist positions require a bachelor's degree. Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, chemist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Des Moines may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemist Jobs in Des Moines
Browse open chemist positions in Des Moines, IA: