Des Moines vs Kennewick: Electrical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare electrical engineer salaries between Des Moines, WA and Kennewick, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, WA | Kennewick, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $124,884 | $132,869▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $60.04 | $63.88▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,901 | $104,013▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $96,428 | $115,062▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $156,936 | $170,110▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $185,802▲ | $183,004 |
| Total Employed | 7 | 450▲ |
Verdict
Kennewick, WA offers better overall compensation for electrical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Des Moines.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Kennewick is $7,985 (6.39%). Kennewick's median is +6.27% compared to the US national median of $125,033.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $104,901,Kennewick spans $78,991. 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, Kennewick ($132,764 effective) pays 14.18% more than Des Moines ($116,279 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 ($185,802)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Kennewick if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($132,869/year)
- ✓Larger job market (450 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $132,764)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, electrical engineer salaries in Des Moines grew -14.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.1% growth in Kennewick over the same period.
Des Moines, WA
$140,458 (2024) → $120,486 (2025)
Kennewick, WA
$112,310 (2019) → $128,190 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, WA
Kennewick, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays electrical engineers more: Des Moines or Kennewick?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Kennewick?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Kennewick as a electrical engineer?
What do entry-level electrical engineers earn in Des Moines vs Kennewick?
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Written by Amina Patel, MEng, PE
Career Analyst
Amina has over 10 years of experience in power systems engineering. She works at a utility company specializing in renewable energy integration.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.65% 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, MEng, PE, a licensed electrical engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov