Cashier Salary in Des Moines, IA
Cashiers in Des Moines, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $13.59 per hour, which translates to about $543.60 per week, $2,355.60 per month, and $28,267.20 per year.
The demand for Cashiers in Des Moines is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook for this essential retail and service role in the area.
How Much Does a Cashier Make in Des Moines, IA?
The salary of a Cashier in Des Moines varies, largely depending on experience. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect at different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.85 | $394.00 | $1,703.33 | $20,488.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.59 | $543.60 | $2,355.60 | $28,267.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.75 | $750.00 | $3,250.00 | $39,000.00 |
Do Cashiers in Des Moines Earn Tips?
Cashiers typically do not earn tips since their role primarily involves processing purchases and customer service transactions rather than providing table service or personal assistance where tipping is customary.
Cashier Salary in Des Moines vs. National Average
Nationally, Cashiers earn an average of around $14.95 per hour, which amounts to approximately $31,096 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cashiers in Des Moines earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $13.59 and an annual salary near $28,267.
This difference can be influenced by local cost of living, retail market conditions, and the scale of businesses in Des Moines.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Moines for Cashiers
Nearby cities with higher pay rates for Cashiers include:
- Altoona: $18.35 per hour
- West Des Moines: $14.37 per hour
Working in Altoona offers substantially higher pay, while West Des Moines also provides rates above the city average.
What Influences a Cashier’s Salary in Des Moines?
A Cashier's salary in Des Moines can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced Cashiers often command higher wages due to proven reliability and efficiency.
- Skills and Abilities: Strong customer service skills, proficiency with point-of-sale systems, and additional responsibilities like inventory management can increase earnings.
- Type of Employer: Retail Chain Stores, Grocery Chains, and Big-Box retailers may offer different pay scales than local, independent stores.
- Shift and Hours: Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts may come with pay differentials or bonuses.
- Local Economic Factors: The level of competition in the local job market and cost of living can impact wages.
How To Become a Cashier in Des Moines
Starting a career as a Cashier in Des Moines involves several steps to improve job prospects and earning potential:
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Enroll in programs like the Iowa Workforce Development Customer Service Training to enhance your communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Consider Business Education: Completing courses through the Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) Business Administration Program can provide valuable knowledge of retail management and customer interaction.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Customer Service Professional (CCSP) credential can validate expertise and increase employability.
- Food Handling Credentials: For Cashiers working in food service locations, the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required and demonstrates knowledge of food safety standards.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level roles at supermarkets and retail outlets provide on-the-job training helpful for career growth.
Top Employers Hiring Cashiers in Des Moines
Several prominent companies in Des Moines regularly hire Cashiers, including:
- ALDI
- Sodexo
- Raising Cane's
- Floor & Decor
Establishments That Cashiers in Des Moines Work At
Cashiers are employed in various establishments that impact their salary potential:
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Often provide steady employment and may include benefits, but wages can vary.
- Fast Food and Quick Service Restaurants: Usually offer lower base pay but can include tips or bonuses in some cases.
- Retail Chains and Big-Box Stores: May offer higher wages and opportunities for advancement with greater employee volume.
- Entertainment Venues and Service Operations: Positions here might differ in pay structure depending on the establishment's size and clientele.
Choice of employer and establishment directly influences a Cashier’s earnings and career trajectory in Des Moines.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Moines for Cashiers
If you're interested in roles similar to Cashier, consider exploring related jobs within the hospitality and retail sector.
These include Barista, Server, and Receptionist roles, which have overlapping skills in customer interaction and service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cashiers in Des Moines
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is important for Cashiers working in Des Moines.
- For federal labor standards, you can visit the U.S. Department of Labor (federal website).
- The Iowa Workforce Development (state website) provides local resources on employment standards and workforce services.
- For information specific to city regulations, the City of Des Moines official website (local website) offers guidance on applicable local rules.