Lawyer Salary in Des Moines, Iowa
The median lawyer salary in Des Moines, IA is $124,881 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 3.4% above the Iowa state average.
Lawyer Pay in Des Moines: What to Expect (2026)
Des Moines offers a median lawyer salary of $124,881, which is $4,072 above the Iowa state average of $120,809. Compared to the national median of $135,740, 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 lawyers in Des Moines spans from $59,800 at the 10th percentile to $220,064 at the 90th percentile — a $160,264 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $64,400, while senior lawyers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $202,400. With a population of 214,133, Des Moines is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Lawyer Salary in Des Moines by Experience
In Des Moines, an entry-level lawyer earns around $64,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $202,400 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 | $59,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $78,200 |
| Median (50th) | $124,881 |
| 75th Percentile | $171,120 |
| 90th Percentile | $220,064 |
Lawyer Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a Lawyer in Des Moines
Education
Most lawyer positions require a doctoral degree. Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, lawyer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Des Moines may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Lawyer Jobs in Des Moines
Browse open lawyer positions in Des Moines, IA: