It is out of line for starting wage in the region. And it isn't just that particular chain which is having issues. Construction is also getting hit hard. Most food service in town has now hiring signs...and some places are closing for multiple days a week due to lack of staff. Just an observation. As a business owner I need to keep track of what the people are expecting as pay if I hire them (assuming I can find people to show up). The last 6mos every single business owner I know local is struggling to find people. They are turning away business due to lack of staff.

When Des Moines is that high, I suspect your area is just catching up, rather than out of line. Des Moines is not a high cost of living city where I would expect wages much higher than any other semi-rural town.

There is a reason everyone is moving here.