Crane Operator Salary in Des Moines, Iowa
The median crane operator salary in Des Moines, IA is $59,202 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 3.4% above the Iowa state average.
Crane Operator Pay in Des Moines: What to Expect (2026)
Des Moines offers a median crane operator salary of $59,202, which is $1,930 above the Iowa state average of $57,272. Compared to the national median of $64,350, 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 crane operators in Des Moines spans from $36,800 at the 10th percentile to $92,000 at the 90th percentile — a $55,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $38,640, while senior crane operators with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $87,400. With a population of 214,133, Des Moines is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Crane Operator Salary in Des Moines by Experience
In Des Moines, an entry-level crane operator earns around $38,640, while experienced professionals earn up to $87,400 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 | $36,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,000 |
| Median (50th) | $59,202 |
| 75th Percentile | $75,440 |
| 90th Percentile | $92,000 |
Crane Operator Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a Crane Operator in Des Moines
Education
Most crane operator positions require a high school diploma. Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, crane operator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Des Moines may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Crane Operator Jobs in Des Moines
Browse open crane operator positions in Des Moines, IA: