Quick answer
✅ Yes — comfortably. A physical therapist in Des Moines earns roughly $89,027/yr (~$5,160/mo take-home) and a 1BR costs $1,150/mo — that's 22% of take-home on rent. The standard is 30% or less.
IA · 2026
Can a Physical Therapist Afford to Live in Des Moines?
Using local salary estimates and Des Moines's actual cost of living — rent, taxes, utilities, and groceries — here's the real monthly picture for a physical therapist in Des Moines, IA in 2026.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Gross monthly salary
$89,027/yr local estimate
$7,419
Taxes (federal + state + FICA)
4.82% state income tax
-$2,259
Monthly take-home
After all taxes
$5,160
1BR rent
22% of take-home
-$1,150
Utilities
Electric, gas, internet avg
-$170
Groceries
Single-person estimate
-$370
Transport
Car or transit average
-$350
Left for everything else
Dining, clothing, fun, savings
$3,120
At a 40% savings rate on discretionary income, a physical therapist in Des Moines could save roughly $14,976/year after covering all essentials.
What Does 22% Rent Burden Mean?
The standard rule of thumb is to spend no more than 30% of gross income on rent. At 22% of take-home pay, a physical therapist in Des Moines is well within a healthy range — leaving solid room for savings and discretionary spending.
These numbers use a local salary estimate of $89,027/yr — adjusted from the national Physical Therapist median of $99,710/yr based on Des Moines's cost of living index. Actual salaries vary by employer, experience, and specialization.
Best Neighborhoods in Des Moines for a Physical Therapist
Based on walkability, rent levels, and quality of life — not just lowest price.
East Village
Hip, walkable urban core with lofts, breweries, galleries, and young professional scene.
Sherman Hill
Historic residential area with mansions and tree-lined streets; established families.
Beaverdale
Family-friendly suburban neighborhood with good schools and parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Physical Therapist in Des Moines?
A Physical Therapist in Des Moines earns approximately $89,027 per year, based on the national BLS median of $99,710/yr adjusted for Des Moines's cost of living. Actual pay varies by employer, experience, and specialization.
Is Des Moines affordable for a physical therapist in 2026?
Yes. Rent takes around 22% of take-home pay — below the 30% guideline. A physical therapist can live comfortably in Des Moines with room to save.
How much take-home pay does a Physical Therapist get in Des Moines?
After federal taxes, 4.82% state income tax, and FICA, a Physical Therapist earning $89,027/yr takes home roughly $5,160/month in Des Moines.
What is the rent-to-income ratio for a Physical Therapist in Des Moines?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Des Moines costs a median of $1,150/month. On a Physical Therapist salary, that's 22% of monthly take-home pay. Financial experts recommend keeping this below 30%.