Des Moines vs Spokane: Actuary Salary (2026)
Compare actuary salaries between Des Moines, WA and Spokane, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, WA | Spokane, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $142,757 | $146,101▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $68.63 | $70.24▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $88,035▲ | $86,136 |
| 25th Percentile | $107,596 | $108,070▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $182,728 | $187,010▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $221,273 | $226,457▲ |
| Total Employed | 7 | 56▲ |
Verdict
Spokane, WA offers better overall compensation for actuaries, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Des Moines.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Spokane is $3,344 (2.34%). Spokane's median is +8.90% compared to the US national median of $134,160.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $133,238,Spokane spans $140,321. Spokane has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced actuarys.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Spokane ($136,034 effective) pays 2.34% more than Des Moines ($132,921 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Spokane if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($146,101/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($226,457)
- ✓Larger job market (56 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $136,034)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, actuary salaries in Des Moines grew -1.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -1.5% growth in Spokane over the same period.
Des Moines, WA
$140,458 (2024) → $138,330 (2025)
Spokane, WA
$143,749 (2024) → $141,571 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, WA
Spokane, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays actuarys more: Des Moines or Spokane?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Spokane?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Spokane as a actuary?
What do entry-level actuarys earn in Des Moines vs Spokane?
Related Comparisons
Written by Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in life insurance. She specializes in risk assessment and pricing strategies.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.20% 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 Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA, a licensed actuary with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov