Des Moines vs Fort Dodge: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Des Moines, IA and Fort Dodge, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, IA | Fort Dodge, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,986 | $89,986▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $42.30 | $43.27▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $72,836▲ | $68,518 |
| 25th Percentile | $81,441▲ | $74,729 |
| 75th Percentile | $109,023 | $112,413▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $137,501▲ | $131,594 |
| Total Employed | 390▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Des Moines and Fort Dodge are closely matched on overall mechanical engineer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Fort Dodge is $2,000 (2.27%). Fort Dodge's median is -16.02% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $64,665,Fort Dodge spans $63,076. Des Moines 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, Fort Dodge ($99,542 effective) pays 3.74% 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 Des Moines if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($137,501)
- ✓Larger job market (390 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Fort Dodge if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,986/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,542)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Des Moines grew 16.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 14.5% growth in Fort Dodge over the same period.
Des Moines, IA
$73,350 (2019) → $85,490 (2025)
Fort Dodge, IA
$76,342 (2024) → $87,433 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, IA
Fort Dodge, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Des Moines or Fort Dodge?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Fort Dodge?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Fort Dodge as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Des Moines vs Fort Dodge?
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