Bettendorf vs Des Moines: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Bettendorf, IA and Des Moines, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bettendorf, IA | Des Moines, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $93,656▲ | $87,986 |
| Hourly Rate | $45.03▲ | $42.30 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,504 | $72,836▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $77,523 | $81,441▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $119,851▲ | $109,023 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $145,167▲ | $137,501 |
| Total Employed | 10 | 390▲ |
Verdict
Bettendorf, IA offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Des Moines.
The salary gap between Bettendorf and Des Moines is $5,670 (6.44%). Bettendorf's median is -12.59% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bettendorf spans $74,663,Des Moines spans $64,665. Bettendorf has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Bettendorf ($103,602 effective) pays 7.98% more than Des Moines ($95,949 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bettendorf if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($93,656/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($145,167)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,602)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓Larger job market (390 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Bettendorf grew 14.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 16.6% growth in Des Moines over the same period.
Bettendorf, IA
$79,456 (2024) → $90,999 (2025)
Des Moines, IA
$73,350 (2019) → $85,490 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bettendorf, IA
Des Moines, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Bettendorf or Des Moines?
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Should I relocate from Bettendorf to Des Moines as a mechanical engineer?
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Written by Amina Patel, PE
Career Analyst
Amina has 10 years of experience in mechanical engineering. She specializes in thermal analysis and works in the automotive industry.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.92% 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 Amina Patel, PE, a licensed mechanical engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov