Game Developer Salary in Des Moines, Iowa
The median game developer salary in Des Moines, IA is $75,650 per year, which is 11% below the national median and 3.5% above the Iowa state average.
Game Developer Pay in Des Moines: What to Expect (2026)
Des Moines offers a median game developer salary of $75,650, which is $2,550 above the Iowa state average of $73,100. Compared to the national median of $85,000, 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 game developers in Des Moines spans from $42,720 at the 10th percentile to $137,950 at the 90th percentile — a $95,230 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $44,500, while senior game developers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $131,720. With a population of 214,133, Des Moines is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Game Developer Salary in Des Moines by Experience
In Des Moines, an entry-level game developer earns around $44,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $131,720 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 | $42,720 |
| 25th Percentile | $57,850 |
| Median (50th) | $75,650 |
| 75th Percentile | $106,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $137,950 |
Game Developer Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a Game Developer in Des Moines
Education
Most game developer positions require a bachelor's degree. Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, game developer employment is projected to grow 10% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Des Moines may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Game Developer Jobs in Des Moines
Browse open game developer positions in Des Moines, IA: