EMT/Paramedic Salary in Des Moines, Iowa
The median emt/paramedic salary in Des Moines, IA is $35,816 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 3.4% above the Iowa state average.
EMT/Paramedic Pay in Des Moines: What to Expect (2026)
Des Moines offers a median emt/paramedic salary of $35,816, which is $1,168 above the Iowa state average of $34,648. Compared to the national median of $38,930, 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 emt/paramedics in Des Moines spans from $23,920 at the 10th percentile to $57,040 at the 90th percentile — a $33,120 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $25,760, while senior emt/paramedics with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $53,360. With a population of 214,133, Des Moines is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
EMT/Paramedic Salary in Des Moines by Experience
In Des Moines, an entry-level emt/paramedic earns around $25,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $53,360 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 | $23,920 |
| 25th Percentile | $28,520 |
| Median (50th) | $35,816 |
| 75th Percentile | $46,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $57,040 |
EMT/Paramedic Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a EMT/Paramedic in Des Moines
Education
Most emt/paramedic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, emt/paramedic employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Des Moines may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find EMT/Paramedic Jobs in Des Moines
Browse open emt/paramedic positions in Des Moines, IA: