Park Ranger Salary in Des Moines, Iowa
The median park ranger salary in Des Moines, IA is $39,100 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 3.4% above the Iowa state average.
Park Ranger Pay in Des Moines: What to Expect (2026)
Des Moines offers a median park ranger salary of $39,100, which is $1,275 above the Iowa state average of $37,825. Compared to the national median of $42,500, 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 park rangers in Des Moines spans from $25,760 at the 10th percentile to $66,240 at the 90th percentile — a $40,480 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $27,600, while senior park rangers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $62,560. With a population of 214,133, Des Moines is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Park Ranger Salary in Des Moines by Experience
In Des Moines, an entry-level park ranger earns around $27,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $62,560 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 | $25,760 |
| 25th Percentile | $31,280 |
| Median (50th) | $39,100 |
| 75th Percentile | $53,360 |
| 90th Percentile | $66,240 |
Park Ranger Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a Park Ranger in Des Moines
Education
Most park ranger positions require a bachelor's degree. Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, park ranger 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 Park Ranger Jobs in Des Moines
Browse open park ranger positions in Des Moines, IA: