Social Worker Salary in Des Moines, Iowa
The median social worker salary in Des Moines, IA is $50,922 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 3.4% above the Iowa state average.
Social Worker Pay in Des Moines: What to Expect (2026)
Des Moines offers a median social worker salary of $50,922, which is $1,660 above the Iowa state average of $49,262. Compared to the national median of $55,350, 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 social workers in Des Moines spans from $33,488 at the 10th percentile to $80,776 at the 90th percentile — a $47,288 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $34,960, while senior social workers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $75,440. With a population of 214,133, Des Moines is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Social Worker Salary in Des Moines by Experience
In Des Moines, an entry-level social worker earns around $34,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $75,440 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 | $33,488 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,664 |
| Median (50th) | $50,922 |
| 75th Percentile | $64,768 |
| 90th Percentile | $80,776 |
Social Worker Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a Social Worker in Des Moines
Education
Most social worker positions require a bachelor's degree. Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, social worker 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 Social Worker Jobs in Des Moines
Browse open social worker positions in Des Moines, IA: