Des Moines vs Johnston: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Des Moines, IA and Johnston, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, IA | Johnston, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $138,178▲ | $125,086 |
| Hourly Rate | $66.43▲ | $60.14 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,649▲ | $78,733 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,705▲ | $101,922 |
| 75th Percentile | $169,867▲ | $158,340 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $181,130 | $193,884▲ |
| Total Employed | 210▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Des Moines, IA offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Johnston.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Johnston is $13,092 (10.47%). Des Moines's median is +0.61% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $96,481,Johnston spans $115,151. Johnston has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced veterinarians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Des Moines ($150,683 effective) pays 8.90% more than Johnston ($138,369 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($138,178/year)
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $150,683)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Johnston if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($193,884)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Des Moines grew 38.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 30.8% growth in Johnston over the same period.
Des Moines, IA
$94,220 (2019) → $130,900 (2025)
Johnston, IA
$90,618 (2024) → $118,498 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, IA
Johnston, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Des Moines or Johnston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Johnston?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Johnston as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Des Moines vs Johnston?
Written by Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM
Career Analyst
Dr. Alice Nguyen has 10 years of experience in veterinary medicine. She specializes in small animal surgery. She currently works at a suburban veterinary clinic.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.56% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM, a licensed veterinarian with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov