Insurance Underwriter Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Des Moines, Iowa$69,000 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Insurance Underwriter Jobs in Des Moines

Looking for a Insurance Underwriter job in Des Moines? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Insurance Underwriter 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 Insurance Underwriters. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Insurance Underwriter Salary in Des Moines

Entry Level
$43,010
Median
$69,000
Senior Level
$100,510

Insurance Underwriter 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

Risk AssessmentPolicy AnalysisUnderwriting GuidelinesData AnalysisCommunication

Insurance Underwriter Job Market in Des Moines

Des Moines, IA is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Insurance Underwriter professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Des Moines offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. The city's strong Insurance and Finance sectors create robust demand for Insurance Underwriter talent. The market for Insurance Underwriter positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Insurance Underwriters in Des Moines

Regional banksCredit unionsNational financial services

Major employers hiring Insurance Underwriters in Des Moines include Regional banks, Credit unions, National financial services. The strong financial services presence creates consistent demand for experienced Insurance Underwriter professionals, with competitive compensation packages. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Insurance Underwriters in Des Moines

Living in Des Moines as a Insurance Underwriter 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. Housing costs are manageable for Insurance Underwriter salaries in the area. 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 Insurance Underwriter 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 Insurance Underwriters in Des Moines: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Insurance Underwriter professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Iowa

Iowa has relatively high state income taxes. A Insurance Underwriter earning $69,000 might pay approximately $5,520 in state income tax. However, Iowa's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Insurance Underwriters

The job outlook for Insurance Underwriters 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 Risk Assessment, Policy Analysis, Underwriting Guidelines, Data Analysis.

Relocating to Des Moines

Des Moines's affordable cost of living means your Insurance Underwriter 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 Insurance Underwriter salary in Des Moines, IA?

The average Insurance Underwriter salary in Des Moines, IA is $69,000 per year. Entry-level Insurance Underwriters typically start around $43,010, while experienced professionals can earn $100,510 or more. The national average for Insurance Underwriter roles is $75,000.

How many Insurance Underwriter jobs are available in Des Moines?

Des Moines has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Insurance Underwriter professionals. Major employers hiring Insurance Underwriters include Regional banks, Credit unions, National financial services. The Insurance and Finance sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Des Moines a good city for Insurance Underwriters?

Des Moines is an solid choice for Insurance Underwriters. 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 finance & accounting professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Insurance Underwriters in Des Moines?

Top skills for Insurance Underwriters in Des Moines include Risk Assessment, Policy Analysis, Underwriting Guidelines, Data Analysis, Communication. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Insurance Underwriters 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 Insurance Underwriters 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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