Content has loaded

Architect salary in Des Moines, IA (Updated 2026)

How much does an Architect make in Des Moines, IA?

Average base salary

$134,881

19%

above national average

Average $134,881

Low $63,565

High $286,212

The average salary for a architect is $134,881 per year in Des Moines, IA. 9 salaries taken from job postings on Indeed in the past 36 months (updated May 6, 2026).

What Does an Architect Do?

Architects design plans for homes, offices and other types of structures. They can design buildings in both indoor and outdoor spaces, working on private projects or public jobs on behalf of government agencies. They’re tasked with translating the client’s ideas into a three-dimensional construction that will meet all of the project’s specifications. An architect’s plans include all elements of the building, including heating, venting and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, electrical wiring, door and window placement, appliance placement and more. An architect’s responsibilities include:

Meeting with clients and assessing the project’s purpose, requirements, budget and other client needs.
Providing cost estimates, approximate timelines and services such as site selection and environmental impact studies to gauge the sustainability of the project.
Developing construction plans, which include scaled drawings and structure specifications using computer-aided design and drafting, building information modeling or hand drawings
Drafting construction documents and negotiating contracts
Creating construction drawings and renderings to illustrate the building design and construction process
Assisting clients as they collect construction bids and choose contractors
Visiting construction sites to make sure contractors are following the architectural plans accurately

Learn more about what an Architect does