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Receptionist Salary in Des Moines, IA

Receptionists in Des Moines, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $19.27 per hour, which translates to about $770.80 per week, $3,340.13 per month, and $40,081.60 per year.

The demand for Receptionists in Des Moines is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increased job opportunities in administrative and front desk roles throughout the city.

What could I earn?
Find out how your salary compares to the average Receptionist salary.
Job Title
Location
Your Salary
Average Receptionist Salary in Des Moines, IA:
Your salary is the same as the Des Moines, IA salary average.
$19.27
Your Salary
$19.27
$0.00
$19.27
$38.54
Market Average
$19.27

How Much Does a Receptionist Make in Des Moines, IA?

The salary of a Receptionist in Des Moines varies with experience and employer type. Below is an overview of typical earnings based on experience level.

Experience levelHourly payWeekly payMonthly payYearly pay
Entry-level (~25th percentile)$15.90$636.00$2,758.00$33,096.00
Mid-level (average)$19.27$770.80$3,340.13$40,081.60
Top earners (90th percentile)$23.36$934.40$4,037.33$48,589.60

Do Receptionists in Des Moines Earn Tips?

Receptionists generally do not earn tips as their work involves administrative and customer service duties rather than direct sales or service interactions where tipping is customary.

Receptionist Salary in Des Moines vs. National Average

Nationally, Receptionists earn around $17.36 per hour, which sums up to approximately $36,108.80 per year.

Receptionists in Des Moines earn a higher average hourly wage at $19.27 per hour and a yearly salary averaging $40,081.60. This difference likely reflects local market factors and demand for skilled administrative staff.

Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Moines for Receptionists

Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Receptionists, including:

  • Downtown Des Moines: $20.00 per hour
  • West Des Moines: $17.58 per hour

Receptionists working in Downtown Des Moines tend to earn more compared to those in West Des Moines, making location a significant factor in salary variations.

High-Paying Cities for Receptionists

The table below showcases four of the best cities to work in as a Receptionist. You can see the average annual wage for a Receptionist in each of these cities.

City

Avg Salary

Avg Hourly Wage

Chicago, IL

$37,780

$18.16

Los Angeles, CA

$40,850

$19.64

Miami, FL

$35,890

$17.25

NYC, NY

$42,150

$20.26

What Influences a Receptionist’s Salary in Des Moines?

Several key factors influence the salary of a Receptionist in Des Moines:

  • Experience and Skills: More experienced Receptionists with strong multitasking, communication, and organizational skills typically earn higher wages.
  • Type of Organization: Receptionists employed by larger corporations or healthcare providers may receive better compensation compared to those in smaller businesses.
  • Certifications and Training: Certifications in administrative support or proficiency in office software can boost pay potential.
  • Work Hours and Shifts: Working evenings or weekends can sometimes increase pay due to shift differentials.
  • Local Economic Conditions: Des Moines' economic growth and demand for office support roles impact salary levels positively.

How To Become a Receptionist in Des Moines

To pursue a career as a Receptionist in Des Moines, consider the following steps:

  • Education and Training: Completing programs like the Office Assistant Program at Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) can provide foundational skills in administrative tasks, communication, and computer applications.
  • Enhance Communication Skills: Courses such as the Business Communication Courses at Iowa State University improve interpersonal and organizational abilities essential for Receptionist roles.
  • Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) and Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) demonstrate proficiency and dedication, improving hiring prospects and salary potential.
  • Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships provide valuable on-the-job training to develop relevant skills.

Top Employers Hiring Receptionists in Des Moines

Prominent organizations in Des Moines actively hiring Receptionists include:

  • MercyOne
  • UnityPoint Health
  • Principal Financial Group
  • Wells Fargo
  • Nationwide Insurance
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Establishments That Receptionists in Des Moines Work At

Receptionists in Des Moines can be found working at a variety of establishments such as:

  • Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and clinics tend to offer stable jobs with competitive salaries due to their size and funding.
  • Financial Institutions: Banks and insurance companies often require professional receptionists to manage front desk operations and customer interactions.
  • Corporate Offices: Large businesses employ Receptionists to support administrative duties and client relations.
  • Educational Institutions: Schools and colleges employ receptionists for managing front office tasks and communications.

The type of establishment significantly impacts salary levels, with larger organizations typically offering better compensation and benefits.

Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Moines for Receptionists

If you are interested in jobs similar to Receptionist roles, consider exploring:

Job Title

Avg Salary

Concierge

$40,230

Receptionist

$36,590

These include roles such as Concierge, Event Coordinator, and Receptionist itself, all of which share skills in customer service and office support within hospitality and service industries.

Labor Laws and Taxes for Receptionists in Des Moines

Receptionists should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that apply to their jobs: