Des Moines vs Johnston: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Des Moines, IA and Johnston, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, IA | Johnston, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $62,254▲ | $57,679 |
| Hourly Rate | $29.93▲ | $27.73 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $46,542 | $47,444▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $50,116 | $54,272▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $64,627 | $72,811▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $80,390 | $89,402▲ |
| Total Employed | 3,640▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Des Moines, IA offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Johnston.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Johnston is $4,575 (7.93%). Des Moines's median is -3.63% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $33,848,Johnston spans $41,958. Johnston has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced elementary school teachers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Des Moines ($67,888 effective) pays 6.40% more than Johnston ($63,804 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($62,254/year)
- ✓Larger job market (3,640 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,888)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Johnston if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($89,402)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Des Moines grew 6.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 9.8% growth in Johnston over the same period.
Des Moines, IA
$57,680 (2019) → $61,650 (2025)
Johnston, IA
$52,021 (2024) → $57,119 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, IA
Johnston, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Des Moines or Johnston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Johnston?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Johnston as a elementary school teacher?
What do entry-level elementary school teachers earn in Des Moines vs Johnston?
Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% 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 Jordan Lee, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov