Administrative Assistant Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Des Moines, Iowa$41,400 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Administrative Assistant Jobs in Des Moines

Looking for a Administrative Assistant job in Des Moines? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Administrative Assistant in Des Moines, IA.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Des Moines has a strong job market for Administrative Assistants. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Administrative Assistant Salary in Des Moines

Entry Level
$27,370
Median
$41,400
Senior Level
$58,190

Administrative Assistant salaries in Des Moines are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Des Moines is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Microsoft OfficeSchedulingCommunicationOrganizationData Entry

Administrative Assistant Job Market in Des Moines

Des Moines, IA is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Administrative Assistant professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Des Moines offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Insurance leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Administrative Assistant roles across various sectors. The market for Administrative Assistant positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Administrative Assistants in Des Moines

Local consulting firmsRegional professional servicesNational companies with local presence

Major employers hiring Administrative Assistants in Des Moines include Local consulting firms, Regional professional services, National companies with local presence. The strong financial services presence creates consistent demand for experienced Administrative Assistant professionals, with competitive compensation packages. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Administrative Assistants in Des Moines

Living in Des Moines as a Administrative Assistant means navigating a cost of living that's close to the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Administrative Assistant salary, rent would consume about 52% of gross income - above the recommended 30% threshold. Consider roommates or suburban options. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

92
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a Administrative Assistant in Des Moines

Des Moines Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Administrative Assistants in Des Moines: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Administrative Assistant professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Iowa

Iowa has relatively high state income taxes. A Administrative Assistant earning $41,400 might pay approximately $3,312 in state income tax. However, Iowa's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Administrative Assistants

The job outlook for Administrative Assistants in Des Moines is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Des Moines offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Microsoft Office, Scheduling, Communication, Organization.

Relocating to Des Moines

Des Moines's affordable cost of living means your Administrative Assistant salary will stretch further than in major coastal cities. Many professionals relocate here for better quality of life. Iowa has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Administrative Assistant salary in Des Moines, IA?

The average Administrative Assistant salary in Des Moines, IA is $41,400 per year. Entry-level Administrative Assistants typically start around $27,370, while experienced professionals can earn $58,190 or more. The national average for Administrative Assistant roles is $45,000.

How many Administrative Assistant jobs are available in Des Moines?

Des Moines has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Administrative Assistant professionals. Major employers hiring Administrative Assistants include Local consulting firms, Regional professional services, National companies with local presence. The Insurance and Finance sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Des Moines a good city for Administrative Assistants?

Des Moines is an solid choice for Administrative Assistants. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The affordable cost of living means salaries go further than in more expensive markets. The city's insurance industry creates strong demand for business & operations professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Administrative Assistants in Des Moines?

Top skills for Administrative Assistants in Des Moines include Microsoft Office, Scheduling, Communication, Organization, Data Entry. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Administrative Assistants in Des Moines?

Des Moines's cost of living is near the national average (92% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Des Moines is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Administrative Assistants in Des Moines?

Des Moines Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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