Design Manager Salary in Iowa, United States
Des Moines offers a median salary of $77,750 for design managers. Finance and health tech firms operate locally. Cost of living stays below the national average.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
$57,000 to $70,000
Average (per year)
$63,750
Fresh graduates start with salaries at the lower end of the range in Franklin County.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
$70,000 to $86,000
Average (per year)
$77,750
Mid-level managers benefit from experience and work for regional manufacturing or small agencies.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
$86,000 to $102,000
Average (per year)
$93,000
Senior roles command higher salaries in rural Iowa.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
$102,500+
Leadership roles at larger firms or government have higher earnings.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
$29 - $38
per hour
Mid-level
$38 - $47
per hour
Senior
$47 - $58
per hour
Iowa's median sits slightly below the U.S. Average. It reflects the average for design managers. Lower housing costs affect purchasing power.