Registered Nurses Salary in Des Moines, IA

In Des Moines, Iowa, registered nurses typically earn a median annual salary of $78,970, which translates to approximately $37.97 per hour. This figure is notably lower than the national median for registered nurses, which stands at $93,600. Compared to the area's median household income of $84,209, the earnings of registered nurses in Des Moines are slightly below average. This suggests that nursing salaries in the city do not significantly outpace typical local household earnings, highlighting a discrepancy when juxtaposed with national figures. The employment outlook for registered nurses in this region remains strong, with an estimated 7,800 individuals employed and a relatively low local unemployment rate of 3.00%, suggesting sustained demand for these healthcare professionals.

Entry-level registered nurses in Des Moines earn around $64,340 annually, which is at the 10th percentile, while those at the 25th percentile make approximately $68,170 per year. On the other hand, more experienced nurses or those with specialized skills and certifications can expect to earn significantly higher salaries, reaching up to $98,110 at the 90th percentile. The disparity in earnings between entry-level and seasoned professionals is primarily driven by factors such as experience, education level, additional certifications, and specialization within the nursing field. As nurses advance in their careers, they often take on more complex roles or management responsibilities, which justifies the higher salaries observed among those at the upper end of the pay scale.