Des Moines per diem rates
Iowa · FY 2026 · GSA high-cost locality
Official travel to Des Moines (Polk County) uses a GSA non-standard area rate—higher than the statewide CONUS default of $110 lodging + $68 M&IE.
Daily M&IE is $80. First and last travel days are paid at 75% ($60). Lodging is a monthly maximum (before tax), not a prorated daily amount.
- M&IE (full day)
- $80
- Peak lodging (FY 2026)
- $121
Example: 3-night trip (October lodging)
Four travel days: two at 75% M&IE and two at 100%, plus three nights at the October cap of $121.
- Lodging: 3 × $121 = $363
- M&IE: 2 × $60 + 2 × $80 = $280
- Estimated total: $643
Monthly lodging caps (FY 2026)
Caps are before lodging tax. Use the month of each night, not the month you book.
| Month | Max lodging | Full-day total |
|---|---|---|
| January | $121 | $201 |
| February | $121 | $201 |
| March | $121 | $201 |
| April | $121 | $201 |
| May | $121 | $201 |
| June | $121 | $201 |
| July | $121 | $201 |
| August | $121 | $201 |
| September | $121 | $201 |
| October | $121 | $201 |
| November | $121 | $201 |
| December | $121 | $201 |
M&IE breakdown
Used when a government-provided meal is deducted. First/last day = $60.
- Breakfast
- $20
- Lunch
- $22
- Dinner
- $33
- Incidentals
- $5
Frequently asked questions
What is the GSA per diem rate for Des Moines?
For FY 2026, this locality pays $80 M&IE and up to $121 lodging in peak months . Use the monthly table for the exact lodging cap.
How does the 75% first and last day rule apply here?
On the first and last calendar days, M&IE is $60 (75% of $80). Lodging is never prorated.
Is this an official GSA page?
No. Verify amounts on GSA per diem rates and your agency’s FTR rules.
Other Iowa high-cost localities
Planning aid only · Not affiliated with GSA · Methodology