Game Developer Salary in Des Moines, IA
How much does a game developer make in Des Moines? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Des Moines's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how game developer salaries break down across different pay periods in Des Moines.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $34,364 | $59,082 | $79,581 |
| Monthly | $2,864 | $4,924 | $6,632 |
| Biweekly | $1,322 | $2,272 | $3,061 |
| Weekly | $661 | $1,136 | $1,530 |
| Hourly | $17 | $28 | $38 |
Des Moines vs National Average
How Des Moines's game developer salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Des Moines
About Game Developer
Overview
Design and develop video games and interactive entertainment experiences.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Game Development
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +24% over the next decade
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Game Developer Salary in Des Moines, IA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a game developer in Des Moines, IA is $59,082 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 97. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Des Moines's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level game developer professionals in Des Moines can expect to earn around $34,364 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level game developers earning approximately $79,581 per year. This represents a 132% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Des Moines's cost of living index of 97 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a lower cost-of-living city, salaries in Des Moines are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $74,280, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a game developer's salary in Des Moines typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,300 per month, housing represents about 26.4% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Game Developers are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 24% over the next decade. In Des Moines, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.