Computer & Information Research Scientist Salary in Des Moines-West Des Moines

Conducts research on fundamental computer and information science problems and develops new technology.

Ranks #133 of 530 metros·Iowa·$152,318 avg

Des Moines-West Des Moines ranks #133 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer & information research scientist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $642 below the national average.

Level I
$88,691
vs national avg: -1%
Level II
$120,349
vs national avg: +6%
Level III
$151,986
vs national avg: +11%
Level IV
$183,643
vs national avg: +14%

Des Moines-West Des Moines vs National Average

LevelThis MetroNational AvgDifference% Change
Level I (Entry)$88,691$89,333$-642-0.7%
Level II$120,349$113,349+$7,000+6.2%
Level III (Mid)$151,986$137,363+$14,623+10.6%
Level IV (Senior)$183,643$161,379+$22,264+13.8%

Other metros in Iowa

Metro AreaLevel ILevel IVAverage
Sioux City$199,160$209,498$206,086
Ames$88,691$183,643$152,318
Cedar Rapids$88,691$183,643$152,318
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$88,691$183,643$152,318
Dubuque$88,691$183,643$152,318

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average computer & information research scientist salary in Des Moines-West Des Moines?

The average computer & information research scientist salary in Des Moines-West Des Moines is $152,318 per year, based on U.S. Department of Labor employer survey data. This places Des Moines-West Des Moines at rank #133 out of 530 U.S. metro areas surveyed.

What do entry-level computer & information research scientists earn in Des Moines-West Des Moines?

Entry-level computer & information research scientists (Level I) in Des Moines-West Des Moines earn $88,691 per year. Level II (early career) earns $120,349, reflecting growing independence and experience.

How does Des Moines-West Des Moines compare to the national average for computer & information research scientist salaries?

Des Moines-West Des Moines ranks #133 of 530 U.S. metro areas for computer & information research scientist pay. Entry-level salaries here are $642 below the national average. The national average computer & information research scientist salary is $137,605, while Des Moines-West Des Moines workers average $152,318 — a difference of +11% overall.

Data source: Salary data sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program, which surveys employers nationwide to collect wage data by occupation and geography. The four experience levels reflect DOL standardized tiers. Data reflects the most recently published survey cycle. SOC code: 15-1221.