SEO Specialist Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Des Moines, Iowa$64,400 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About SEO Specialist Jobs in Des Moines

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

SEO Specialist Salary in Des Moines

Entry Level
$39,100
Median
$64,400
Senior Level
$95,220

SEO Specialist 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

Technical SEOKeyword ResearchLink BuildingAnalyticsContent Optimization

SEO Specialist Job Market in Des Moines

Des Moines, IA is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for SEO Specialist 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 SEO Specialist roles across various sectors. The market for SEO Specialist positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring SEO Specialists in Des Moines

Local governmentRegional employersNational companies

Major employers hiring SEO Specialists in Des Moines include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for SEO Specialists in Des Moines

Living in Des Moines as a SEO Specialist 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 SEO Specialist 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 SEO Specialist 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 SEO Specialists in Des Moines: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among SEO Specialist professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Iowa

Iowa has relatively high state income taxes. A SEO Specialist earning $64,400 might pay approximately $5,152 in state income tax. However, Iowa's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for SEO Specialists

The job outlook for SEO Specialists 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 Technical SEO, Keyword Research, Link Building, Analytics.

Relocating to Des Moines

Des Moines's affordable cost of living means your SEO Specialist 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 SEO Specialist salary in Des Moines, IA?

The average SEO Specialist salary in Des Moines, IA is $64,400 per year. Entry-level SEO Specialists typically start around $39,100, while experienced professionals can earn $95,220 or more. The national average for SEO Specialist roles is $70,000.

How many SEO Specialist jobs are available in Des Moines?

Des Moines has a growing job market with steady opportunities for SEO Specialist professionals. Major employers hiring SEO Specialists include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. The Insurance and Finance sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Des Moines a good city for SEO Specialists?

Des Moines is an solid choice for SEO Specialists. 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 marketing professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for SEO Specialists in Des Moines?

Top skills for SEO Specialists in Des Moines include Technical SEO, Keyword Research, Link Building, Analytics, Content Optimization. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for SEO Specialists 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 SEO Specialists 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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