Des Moines vs Iowa City: Electrician Salary (2026)
Compare electrician salaries between Des Moines, IA and Iowa City, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, IA | Iowa City, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,172▲ | $60,772 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.85▲ | $29.22 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,582▲ | $40,184 |
| 25th Percentile | $47,843▲ | $46,577 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,135▲ | $72,607 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $94,614▲ | $85,689 |
| Total Employed | 2,870▲ | 370 |
Verdict
Des Moines, IA offers better overall compensation for electricians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Iowa City.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Iowa City is $3,400 (5.59%). Des Moines's median is -0.55% compared to the US national median of $64,530.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $54,032,Iowa City spans $45,505. Des Moines has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Des Moines ($69,980 effective) pays 5.37% more than Iowa City ($66,411 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($64,172/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($94,614)
- ✓Larger job market (2,870 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $69,980)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Iowa City if…
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, electrician salaries in Des Moines grew 12.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 7.1% growth in Iowa City over the same period.
Des Moines, IA
$55,880 (2019) → $62,840 (2025)
Iowa City, IA
$55,580 (2019) → $59,510 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, IA
Iowa City, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays electricians more: Des Moines or Iowa City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Iowa City?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Iowa City as a electrician?
What do entry-level electricians earn in Des Moines vs Iowa City?
Written by Samuel Carter, Career Analyst
Career Analyst
Samuel Carter has over 10 years of experience as an electrician. His focus includes residential wiring and safety standards. He has worked in various construction firms.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.12% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Samuel Carter, Career Analyst, a licensed electrician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov