Registered Nurse in Des Moines, IA

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Registered Nurses considering a move to Des Moines, Iowa.

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The Salary Picture: Where Des Moines Stands

As a local, I can tell you that Des Moines offers a solid financial foundation for nurses, especially considering the city's low cost of living. The median salary for a Registered Nurse here is $84,185/year, with an hourly rate of $40.47/hour. While the national average for RNs is $86,070/year, the difference is minimal and more than offset by Iowa's affordability. With 1,893 nursing jobs in the metro area and a 10-year job growth projection of 6%, the market is stable and offers plenty of opportunities for both new graduates and experienced professionals.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect based on experience level:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Des Moines)	Key Characteristics
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$68,000 - $75,000	Often starts in Med-Surg or acute care. Opportunity for rapid skill development.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$80,000 - $92,000	This is where the median sits. Specialization begins; shift differentials and overtime can push earnings higher.
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$90,000 - $105,000	Often includes charge nurse roles, preceptorship, or specialized units (ICU, ER).
Expert/Specialized (15+ years)	$100,000+	Advanced certifications (e.g., CCRN, OCN), NP roles, or leadership positions (Nurse Manager, Director).

How does Des Moines compare to other Iowa cities?

• Cedar Rapids: Salaries are very similar (median ~$83,500), with a slightly smaller metro population.
• Iowa City (home to UI Hospitals & Clinics): Salaries can be 5-8% higher due to the academic medical center, but the cost of living, especially rent, is also higher.
• Davenport (Quad Cities): Salaries are comparable, but the job market is more tied to the industrial sector and regional hospitals.

Insider Tip: The $84,185 median is a great baseline, but many nurses in Des Moines earn significantly more through shift differentials (nights/weekends), on-call pay, and overtime. Unionized hospitals like MercyOne and UnityPoint have structured pay scales that reward experience and education.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about your budget. Des Moines's affordability is its biggest draw. The cost of living index is 92.7 (US avg = 100), and the average 1-bedroom rent is just $899/month.

Here’s a monthly budget breakdown for an RN earning the median salary of $84,185/year (assuming roughly $7,015/month gross). This is an estimate; your take-home will vary based on insurance, retirement contributions, and withholdings.

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Pay	$7,015	Based on $84,185/year.
Take-Home Pay (After Taxes)	~$5,250	This is a conservative estimate. Iowa has a progressive income tax (3.8%-6.5%).
Rent (1BR Average)	$899	This is for a decent apartment in a safe, central neighborhood.
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet)	$150	Varies by season; winters are colder, so heating costs rise.
Car Payment/Insurance	$400	Des Moines is a car-centric city. Public transit exists but is limited.
Groceries	$400	Iowa has a great local food scene; you can save by shopping at local chains like Hy-Vee or Fareway.
Student Loans	$300	A standard payment for a nursing degree.
Retirement (401k/403b)	$350	Aim for at least 5% of your salary, especially if your employer offers a match.
Health Insurance	$250	This is a post-tax deduction for most single employees.
Miscellaneous (Entertainment, Dining, Savings)	$1,501	You have over $1,500 left for savings, fun, and miscellaneous expenses.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in the Des Moines metro is around $280,000. With a $5,250 monthly take-home and a $899 rent, you can comfortably save for a down payment. A 20% down payment ($56,000) might take 2-3 years of disciplined saving, but a 5% down payment ($14,000) is much more achievable. Many first-time homebuyer programs in Iowa are very nurse-friendly.

Where the Jobs Are: Des Moines's Major Employers

Des Moines is a healthcare hub. The job market is competitive but robust, with a mix of large, unionized systems and community-focused hospitals. Here are the key players:

1. MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center: Part of the national Trinity Health system. It's a Level II Trauma Center and a major teaching hospital. They have a strong union (Iowa Nurses Association) and offer great benefits. Hiring is steady across all units.
2. UnityPoint Health – Des Moines: A non-profit system with multiple locations, including Iowa Lutheran Hospital and Iowa Methodist Medical Center. They are the largest employer in the state. They have a culture of internal promotion and offer tuition reimbursement for continuing education.
3. Broadlawns Medical Center: The public, safety-net hospital for Polk County. It provides care regardless of ability to pay. Working here is a unique experience; you'll see a wide variety of cases. They have a dedicated psychiatric emergency department and a strong community focus.
4. Iowa Methodist Medical Center (UnityPoint): A major heart and cancer center. If you're interested in cardiovascular or oncology nursing, this is a prime location. They have a very experienced staff and a high-acuity patient population.
5. Iowa Specialty Hospitals & Clinics: Located in nearby Belmond and Clarion, but with a major presence in Des Moines for outpatient services. They are known for a collaborative, smaller-hospital feel while still offering advanced services.
6. VA Central Iowa Healthcare System (John C. Byers Medical Center): Located in Clive, a suburb of Des Moines. Offers federal benefits and the opportunity to work with a veteran population. Hiring can be slower due to the federal process, but the turnover is low.
7. Pediatric Care: For peds nurses, Blank Children’s Hospital (part of UnityPoint) is the only dedicated children's hospital in the state. It's a major draw and offers specialized NICU and PICU roles.

Hiring Trends: There's a constant need for Med-Surg, ICU, and ER nurses. Behavioral health is a growing field, especially at Broadlawns. Home health and hospice are also booming as the population ages. Most systems now use AI for initial resume screening, so tailor your application with keywords from the job description.

Getting Licensed in IA

Iowa makes it relatively straightforward for nurses to relocate, but you must follow the state's rules. The Iowa Board of Nursing is your go-to source.

Requirements & Costs:

• Licensure by Endorsement: For nurses already licensed in another state. You need an active, unencumbered license from your home state.
• Cost: The application fee is $175 (non-refundable). There may be an additional $20 for a background check.
• Education: You must provide proof of an approved nursing education program (transcripts).
• Fingerprints: Required for a national and state background check. You can have them taken at a local law enforcement agency or through a service like IdentoGO.
• NCLEX: If you’re a new grad, you must pass the NCLEX-RN. Iowa is a member of the NCSBN.

Timeline to Get Started:

• Week 1-2: Gather your documents—current license, transcripts, and proof of work experience. Request fingerprint cards.
• Week 3: Create an account on the Iowa Board of Nursing's online portal and submit your application and fees.
• Week 4-8: Your application will be processed. The background check can take several weeks. Once approved, your license number will be posted online.
• Insider Tip: Start this process before you move. You can work under a temporary permit for up to 30 days while your full license is processed, but it’s stressful. Apply for your Iowa license as soon as you accept a job offer.

Best Neighborhoods for Registered Nurses

Where you live will shape your Des Moines experience. All neighborhoods are within a 15-20 minute drive to the major hospitals, which are clustered in the central city and western suburbs.

1. Downtown Des Moines (East Village & Court Avenue):

   • Vibe: Urban, walkable, vibrant nightlife. You'll see state capitol workers and young professionals.
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to MercyOne or Broadlawns. You can often walk or bike.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,500/month for a modern 1BR.
   • Best For: Nurses who want an active social life and minimal commute.

2. Beaverdale (Northwest Des Moines):

   • Vibe: Established, quiet, family-friendly. Great parks and elementary schools.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to MercyOne; 15-20 minutes to UnityPoint hospitals.
   • Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,100/month for a 1BR or older duplex.
   • Best For: Nurses seeking a peaceful, suburban feel without being far from work.

3. Windsor Heights (West Des Moines):

   • Vibe: A classic, walkable suburb with a strong community feel. It's adjacent to the popular Valley Junction area.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to UnityPoint Methodist and Lutheran.
   • Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,200/month.
   • Best For: Nurses who want the convenience of suburbia with easy access to both hospitals and shopping.

4. Sherman Hill (Near Downtown):

   • Vibe: Historic, architectural charm with restored Victorian homes and condos. Very safe and quiet.
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to MercyOne and Broadlawns.
   • Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,300/month for a condo or apartment.
   • Best For: Nurses who love history, architecture, and a quiet neighborhood feel that's still central.

5. Clive/Waukee (Western Suburbs):

   • Vibe: Fast-growing, modern, and family-oriented. Home to the new MercyOne West campus.
   • Commute: 15-25 minutes to downtown hospitals, but very close to MercyOne West and the VA.
   • Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,400/month for newer 1BR apartments.
   • Best For: Nurses who prefer newer construction, more space, and a suburban lifestyle. Ideal if you work at MercyOne West.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Des Moines is a fantastic place to build a long-term nursing career. The low cost of living allows you to invest in further education without massive debt.

Specialty Premiums: While base salaries are consistent, specialties can command higher pay through differentials and certifications:

• ICU/ER/CCU: Often a $2-$4/hour differential.
• OR/Perioperative: Requires a specific certification (CNOR), which can lead to a pay bump.
• Labor & Delivery/NICU: Highly competitive but offers a strong sense of community and skill.
• Psychiatric-Mental Health: High demand with potential for sign-on bonuses ($5,000-$15,000 is common).

Advancement Paths:

• Clinical Ladder: Most major hospitals have a clinical ladder program. You advance by earning certifications (e.g., CCRN, OCN), precepting students, and leading unit-based projects. Each step can come with a 5-10% pay increase.
• Education: Des Moines is home to Grand View University, Drake University, and Mercy College of Health Sciences, all offering excellent BSN and MSN programs. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement.
• Leadership: Moving into a Charge Nurse, Nurse Manager, or Director role requires a BSN (often mandatory) and an MSN for higher-level positions. The job market for these roles is steady.

10-Year Outlook: With 6% job growth, the demand will remain strong. The trend is toward more outpatient care and specialized units. Nurses with experience in informatics, population health, and chronic disease management will be highly valuable. Des Moines is also developing a strong telehealth sector, which may create new remote nursing opportunities.

The Verdict: Is Des Moines Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes much further than in coastal cities.	Car Dependency: You will need a reliable car. Public transit is not robust.
Strong Job Market: 1,893 jobs and stable growth (6%) mean you're not struggling to find work.	Winters Are Long & Cold: From November to March, expect snow, ice, and gray skies.
Manageable Commute: You can live in a neighborhood you love and still be at work in 15 minutes.	Less Diverse Cuisine: It's improving, but you won't find the same international food scene as in a major coastal city.
Excellent Work-Life Balance: The "Iowa Nice" culture extends to the workplace. It's generally less high-pressure than big-city hospitals.	Limited Public Activities: Outside of sports (Cyclones, Cubs affiliate), concerts, and festivals, you need to create your own fun.
Great for Families: Top-rated schools (especially in suburbs like Waukee and Ankeny) and safe communities.	Smaller Metro: The arts and culture scene is active but smaller than in Chicago or Minneapolis.

Final Recommendation: Des Moines is an excellent choice for a Registered Nurse who values financial stability, a manageable pace of life, and a strong sense of community. It's particularly ideal for nurses in their 30s and 40s looking to buy a home, start a family, or pay down student debt aggressively. If you're a new grad, it's a fantastic place to gain broad experience without being overwhelmed. If you require the energy of a massive, 24/7 city, you might find it limiting.

FAQs

Q: What is the average cost of living for a single RN in Des Moines?
A: A single RN earning the median salary of $84,185 can live very comfortably. After taxes, rent ($899), and typical expenses, you can expect to have $1,500+ left for savings, travel, and entertainment each month.

Q: Are there sign-on bonuses for nurses in Des Moines?
A: Yes, especially for high-demand specialties like ICU, ER, and psych. Bonuses can range from $5,000 to $20,000, often paid in installments over 1-2 years. Always read the fine print about repayment if you leave early.

Q: Is Des Moines a good place for new graduate nurses?
A: Very good. The cost of living allows you to start your career without being crushed by rent. Many hospitals have robust new grad residency programs, particularly MercyOne and UnityPoint. The 6% job growth ensures opportunities.

Q: How far are the hospitals from each other?
A: They are all within a 10-15 minute drive of each other. This makes it easy to switch jobs without having to move, which is a huge advantage for career growth.

Q: Do I need to know about Iowa's specific nursing laws?
A: The Iowa Board of Nursing has its own rules, particularly around scope of practice for APRNs. For RNs, the basics are standard, but it's wise to review the board's website to understand continuing education requirements and any recent legislative changes.