Machine Learning Engineer Salary
in Des Moines, IA
Build and deploy machine learning models and AI systems at production scale. Median salary in Des Moines: $168K/year. Data from BLS, O*NET, and H-1B disclosures.
Salary range in Des Moines
Source: BLS OES 2026, H-1B DOL Disclosures Q1 2026. Figures represent annual base salary in Des Moines, Iowa.
Key facts for Des Moines
Salary forecast: Des Moines Machine Learning Engineer to 2030
Based on BLS 2022–2032 Employment Projections and WEF Future of Jobs Report 2025. At current growth rates, median salary reaches $238K by 2030.
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Machine Learning Engineer Salary in Des Moines, Iowa: Complete Guide (2026)
The median Machine Learning Engineer salary in Des Moines, IA is $168,000 per year as of Q1 2025. This figure represents the midpoint of all reported compensation for this role in the Des Moines–IA metropolitan area, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics, H-1B visa disclosures from the Department of Labor, and O*NET occupational data.
Salary range for Machine Learning Engineer in Des Moines
Entry-level Machine Learning Engineers in Des Moines with 0–2 years of experience typically earn between $125,000 and $168,000 annually. Mid-career professionals with 3–7 years command $168,000 to $215,000, while senior-level practitioners with 8+ years of experience regularly earn $215,000 to $275,000 or more.
Cost of living in Des Moines for Machine Learning Engineers
Des Moines has a cost of living index of 88 compared to the US national average of 100. This means your salary goes approximately 12% further in Des Moines than the national average. Iowa has a 4.82% state income tax rate.
Education requirements for Machine Learning Engineer
Master's or PhD in CS, Mathematics, or related. This role is 70% remote-eligible nationally, which can significantly expand the job market for Des Moines-based professionals.