AI Research Roles salary in Des Moines.

The median salary across 39 ai research roles tracked in Des Moines, IA is $121,260. The full range runs from $54,180 at the entry level for the lowest-paying tracked role up to $298,420 at the top of the highest-paying tracked role. Des Moines sits 14% below the national average for cost-adjusted compensation.

AI Research Director is the highest-paying ai research role in Des Moines, with a median base salary of $229,620 when adjusted for local cost of living. Total compensation including equity and bonuses runs significantly higher at top-tier employers.

Yes. Des Moines is one of the active markets for AI talent in 2026. Des Moines is a major insurance and financial services hub, home to Principal Financial, EMC Insurance, and a growing fintech community. AI Research Roles specifically benefit from local employer demand and the broader AI hiring boom that has pushed compensation up year over year.

Des Moines pays roughly 14% less than the national average for ai research roles. Top markets like San Francisco, New York, and Seattle typically pay 30-50% above national. Mid-cost metros like Austin, Denver, and Raleigh pay closer to national.