Des Moines vs West Des Moines: Anesthesiologist Salary (2026)
Compare anesthesiologist salaries between Des Moines, IA and West Des Moines, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, IA | West Des Moines, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $380,395▲ | $361,404 |
| Hourly Rate | $182.89▲ | $173.75 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $220,629▲ | $209,614 |
| 25th Percentile | $273,884▲ | $260,211 |
| 75th Percentile | $486,905▲ | $455,175 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $577,961▲ | $513,707 |
| Total Employed | 44▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Des Moines, IA offers better overall compensation for anesthesiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to West Des Moines.
The salary gap between Des Moines and West Des Moines is $18,991 (5.25%). Des Moines's median is -7.02% compared to the US national median of $409,107.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $357,332,West Des Moines spans $304,093. 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 ($420,791 effective) pays 5.25% more than West Des Moines ($399,783 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 ($380,395/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($577,961)
- ✓Larger job market (44 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $420,791)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose West Des Moines if…
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, anesthesiologist salaries in Des Moines grew 8.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 8.7% growth in West Des Moines over the same period.
Des Moines, IA
$334,734 (2024) → $364,014 (2025)
West Des Moines, IA
$318,023 (2024) → $345,841 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, IA
West Des Moines, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays anesthesiologists more: Des Moines or West Des Moines?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and West Des Moines?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to West Des Moines as a anesthesiologist?
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Written by Dr. Maria Chen, MD
Career Analyst
Dr. Chen has over 10 years of experience in anesthesiology. She specializes in perioperative care at a major metropolitan hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.50% 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 Dr. Maria Chen, MD, a licensed anesthesiologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov