Overview: Nursing Jobs in Des Moines, Iowa
Iowa’s capital, Des Moines, offers a growing number of job openings for nurses. While salaries in the state may not be the highest compared to other regions, Iowa compensates with an affordable cost of living, job security, and a tight-knit community. Whether you’re drawn to the fast pace of urban hospitals or the personalized care of rural facilities, Iowa offers a diverse and rewarding landscape for nursing professionals.
Searching for full-time, part-time, contract, temporary, or per diem nursing jobs in Des Moines, Iowa? Let’s navigate the job market and the city’s dynamic lifestyle beyond healthcare.
Quick Facts About Nursing Jobs in Des Moines, Iowa
- Is Iowa a compact state? Yes, Iowa is a part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) agreement. Learn more about the Iowa Nurse Practice Act.
- What do nurses earn in Des Moines? Here’s an overview of the average annual salaries for various nursing roles:
- NP salary in Des Moines: $132,170
- RN salary in Des Moines: $76,830
- LPN salary in Des Moines: $58,390
- CNA salary in Des Moines: $39,990
- Where can I find information about nurse license requirements in Iowa? For all things nursing in Iowa, the Iowa Board of Nursing is your go-to resource. When it’s time to renew your license, be sure to check out our guide on nursing license renewal in Iowa for all the details.
- Where can I search for nursing jobs in the Des Moines area? If you're planning a move to the area but unsure where to settle, check out nursing opportunities in these nearby cities:
- Nursing jobs in Ankeny, IA
- Nursing jobs in Indianola, IA
- Nursing jobs in Grimes, IA
- Nursing jobs in Urbandale, IA
- Nursing jobs in Stuart, IA
What to Know When Pursuing Nursing Jobs in Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines, IA, is home to over 210,000 residents from diverse backgrounds: 66.9% of the population identifies as White, 15.9% identifies as Hispanic or Latino, 12% identifies as Black, 6.2% identifies as Asian, 4.5% identifies as multicultural, 0.5% identifies as American Indian or Alaska Native, and 0.04% identifies as Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander. This rich cultural landscape makes culturally competent care an essential part of healthcare in the city.
Beyond its diversity, Des Moines is also a young and dynamic city, with a median age of 32.2 — more than six years below the national median of 38.4. Whether you’re drawn to pediatrics, adult care, or geriatrics, the city’s population breakdown (11.1% age 65 and older, 23.3% under 18, and 63.9% adult) allows healthcare professionals to tailor their practice to their strengths and passions.
Your nursing career can take many directions. Here are some common roles you can apply to:
Working in Des Moines, IA
Healthcare is the largest employer in Des Moines, with 13.7% of the workforce dedicated to the field. This translates to a wealth of career opportunities across diverse healthcare settings.
Love the fast-paced environment of acute care? There’s no shortage of nursing jobs in Des Moines, Iowa. Check out these hospitals and medical centers:
For those passionate about post-acute care, nursing homes offer diverse opportunities. You can also find nursing jobs in Des Moines, Iowa, within government institutions like the State of Iowa and long-term care facilities such as Care Initiatives.
Curious about commuting in Des Moines? The average drive time is just 18.8 minutes — well below the national average of 26.4. Most commuters (80.6%) drive solo, while 9.8% carpool, 3.1% work remotely, and 2.2% rely on public transit.
Balancing work and family? Des Moines offers plenty of daycare centers and pet-sitting services, giving you peace of mind that your little ones — human or furry — are well cared for while you’re on the job.
Living in Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no shortage of outdoor fun, with scenic trails and plenty of green spaces. The Gray’s Lake Park features a picturesque 1.9-mile trail and kayaking opportunities, while Des Moines Water Works Park is perfect for biking, fishing, and community events. For a mix of art and nature, Pappajohn Sculpture Park showcases world-class sculptures in an open-air setting.
The city is home to some fantastic museums and galleries. The Des Moines Art Center is a must-visit, offering a mix of contemporary and modern art. If you're into local history, the State Historical Museum of Iowa takes you through the past with over 80,000 artifacts. For a more interactive experience, the Science Center of Iowa features hands-on exhibits and a planetarium. And make sure to visit the Iowa State Capitol, the only five-domed capitol in the country, adorned with 23.75 karats of gold.
Des Moines also hosts a variety of cultural events. The Iowa State Fair honors the state’s agricultural roots with carnival rides, live music, and unique foods. The World Food and Music Festival highlights international cuisine and performances, and the Des Moines Arts Festival brings together local and national artists, musicians, and performers for a celebration of creativity.
Wondering what the weather's like in Des Moines? Expect warm, humid summers and snowy, windy winters. Throughout the year, temperatures usually range between 17 to 86 degrees.
Curious about your budget in Des Moines? The cost of living is 13.4% lower than the U.S. average. Homes here average $175,700 — 48% less than the national average — while renting costs around $1,020 per month, 28.7% cheaper than the U.S. average.
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