Urban Planner Salary in Des Moines, Iowa
The median urban planner salary in Des Moines, IA is $73,177 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 3.4% above the Iowa state average.
Urban Planner Pay in Des Moines: What to Expect (2026)
Des Moines offers a median urban planner salary of $73,177, which is $2,386 above the Iowa state average of $70,791. Compared to the national median of $79,540, 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 urban planners in Des Moines spans from $46,000 at the 10th percentile to $112,240 at the 90th percentile — a $66,240 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $47,840, while senior urban planners with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $108,560. With a population of 214,133, Des Moines is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Urban Planner Salary in Des Moines by Experience
In Des Moines, an entry-level urban planner earns around $47,840, while experienced professionals earn up to $108,560 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 | $46,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $57,960 |
| Median (50th) | $73,177 |
| 75th Percentile | $92,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $112,240 |
Urban Planner Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a Urban Planner in Des Moines
Education
Most urban planner positions require a master's degree. Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, urban planner employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Des Moines may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Urban Planner Jobs in Des Moines
Browse open urban planner positions in Des Moines, IA: