Salaries in Seattle, WA

Updated on Jan 08, 2025
City
Salary

What is the average salary in Seattle, WA?

The average salary in Seattle, WA is $93,074 per year.

In Seattle, WA, job seekers can expect a wide range of salaries across different positions. The average yearly salary stands at $93,074, which reflects the city's dynamic job market. The salary distribution shows that many positions fall within different salary brackets.


About 30.2% of jobs offer salaries around $38,000. As experience and qualifications increase, salaries rise significantly. For instance, around 15.6% of jobs provide around $55,455, while 11.2% offer $72,909. Higher-paying positions also exist, with about 9.4% of jobs paying $90,364, and 8.8% paying $107,818.


Even more exciting, opportunities for advanced roles continue with salaries reaching $125,273 for 6.3% of jobs, and up to $195,091 for 1.4% of positions. Top-tier roles can pay as high as $230,000, opening doors to significant earnings for qualified individuals. The job market in Seattle offers excellent opportunities for growth and competitive pay across various fields.

View Jobs in Seattle, WA

What are the best paying jobs in Seattle, WA?

In Seattle, some of the highest-paying jobs include positions in the medical field, such as Gastroenterologist, Psychiatrist, and Physician, with average salaries ranging from about $189,550 to $432,323. Other lucrative roles include General Dentist and various physician specialties, which also offer impressive compensation. Beyond healthcare, careers like Machine Learning Engineer and Deputy Director can provide excellent financial rewards, showcasing a diverse job market with strong earning potential.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Seattle, WA, highlighting Gastroenterologist with the highest at $432,323 and Chief Operating Officer with the lowest at $189,550.
  1. Gastroenterologist
    Average Salary: $432,323
    This role focuses on diagnosing and treating digestive system diseases. Professionals often work at major health systems like Providence and Swedish. The demand for specialists in this field remains strong, offering competitive salaries.
    Find Gastroenterologist jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. Psychiatrist
    Average Salary: $329,002
    Mental health professionals address a variety of psychological conditions and work closely with patients. In Seattle, clinics such as UW Medicine and Kaiser Permanente employ psychiatrists, providing a steady need for their expertise. Innovative treatment methods and community well-being are high priorities.
    Find Psychiatrist jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Physician
    Average Salary: $267,675
    Doctors in various specialties provide essential healthcare services. Hospitals and private practices in the area continually seek qualified physicians to meet patient needs. The role offers substantial financial rewards alongside the opportunity to make a lasting impact on people's lives.
    Find Physician jobs in Seattle, WA


  4. General Dentist
    Average Salary: $237,945
    Dentists provide preventive care and treatments to maintain oral health. Practices like Gentle Dental and Bright Now Dental are popular in the region, guaranteeing a steady flow of patients. This career combines medical knowledge with patient care, resulting in a rewarding profession.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Seattle, WA


  5. Professor
    Average Salary: $232,958
    Academics in higher education develop curricula and instruct students in specific subjects. Universities such as the University of Washington require professors to elevate educational standards and research initiatives. The role promotes both teaching and advancement in knowledge.
    Find Professor jobs in Seattle, WA


  6. Primary Care Physician
    Average Salary: $223,563
    A primary care physician offers routine check-ups and manages overall health. In Seattle, medical groups like Group Health actively recruit these professionals to ensure accessible healthcare for residents. This position fosters continual patient relationships, enhancing health outcomes.
    Find Primary Care Physician jobs in Seattle, WA


  7. Family Medicine Physician
    Average Salary: $222,994
    These doctors provide care for all family members across various ages. Facilities like Swedish Family Medicine focus on family health, making this specialty essential in community healthcare. They often guide patients through preventive care and chronic illness management.
    Find Family Medicine Physician jobs in Seattle, WA


  8. Deputy Director
    Average Salary: $197,364
    This leadership role involves overseeing operations within organizations. Many nonprofits and healthcare institutions in Seattle seek individuals to assist strategic initiatives. The position demands strong management skills and offers good compensation for effective leadership.
    Find Deputy Director jobs in Seattle, WA


  9. Machine Learning Engineer
    Average Salary: $195,718
    These engineers develop algorithms to analyze and interpret large data sets. Companies such as Amazon and Microsoft look for skilled professionals to enhance their technology offerings. The demand for this field continues to grow as companies recognize the value of data-driven decision-making.
    Find Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA


  10. Chief Operating Officer
    Average Salary: $189,550
    COOs manage day-to-day operations within organizations, driving efficiency and growth. In Seattle's competitive business landscape, firms rely on these executives to implement strategies that impact success. This top position comes with significant responsibility and, correspondingly, high compensation.
    Find Chief Operating Officer jobs in Seattle, WA

What are the best paying jobs in Seattle, WA without a degree?

In Seattle, some of the highest paying jobs that do not require a degree include Outside Sales Representative, Floating Operator, and Equipment Manager, with salaries reaching upwards of $108,000. Other lucrative options include Restaurant Manager and Kitchen Manager, offering salaries in the mid-$90,000s. Job seekers can find rewarding careers in fields like sales, management, and skilled trades without the necessity of a formal degree.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Seattle, WA without a degree, highlighting Outside Sales Representative with the highest at $108,849 and Restaurant Manager with the lowest at $60,071.
  1. Outside Sales Representative
    Average Salary: $108,849
    An outside sales representative works directly with clients, building relationships and closing deals. Companies often offer attractive commissions alongside base salaries. This role is vital for businesses like software firms and manufacturing companies in the area.
    Find Outside Sales Representative jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. Floating Operator
    Average Salary: $98,579
    Floating operators manage equipment and tools on job sites, ensuring they run efficiently. They often work in construction or recycling industries, operating in a variety of locations. This position offers opportunities at companies that value skilled tradespeople.
    Find Floating Operator jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Equipment Manager
    Average Salary: $94,256
    This role involves overseeing and maintaining heavy machinery used in various sectors. Companies in construction and logistics rely heavily on equipment managers to keep operations smooth and efficient. This position is crucial for businesses that depend on high-performing machinery.
    Find Equipment Manager jobs in Seattle, WA


  4. Kitchen Manager
    Average Salary: $91,735
    Kitchen managers run the day-to-day operations of restaurant kitchens, ensuring food quality and safety standards. They need strong leadership skills to manage staff and kitchen inventory. Many popular restaurants in the city seek experienced individuals for these key roles.
    Find Kitchen Manager jobs in Seattle, WA


  5. Applicator
    Average Salary: $74,113
    Applicators work with chemicals and materials in various fields, from agriculture to pest control. This career requires knowledge of safety procedures and often includes a mix of outdoor and indoor tasks. Companies providing landscaping services and agricultural support seek experienced applicators.
    Find Applicator jobs in Seattle, WA


  6. Concrete Finisher
    Average Salary: $70,970
    Concrete finishers are skilled tradespeople who shape and smooth concrete surfaces. Their work is essential in construction, paving, and other hardscaping projects. Various construction firms in the area recruit qualified finishers to ensure high-quality results.
    Find Concrete Finisher jobs in Seattle, WA


  7. Canvasser
    Average Salary: $67,338
    Canvassers gather information and raise support for various causes by engaging with the public. They often work for non-profit organizations and political campaigns that aim to make a difference. This role can offer flexible hours and rewarding experiences.
    Find Canvasser jobs in Seattle, WA


  8. Drain Cleaner
    Average Salary: $66,733
    Drain cleaners provide essential maintenance services to homes and businesses by unclogging and fixing drainage systems. They use specialized tools to solve plumbing issues and work closely with customers. Companies in plumbing and maintenance sectors are in need of skilled cleaners.
    Find Drain Cleaner jobs in Seattle, WA


  9. Arborist Climber
    Average Salary: $62,568
    Arborist climbers care for trees through pruning, trimming, and health assessments. This profession requires physical strength and tree-care knowledge. Many tree service companies and landscaping businesses actively seek certified climbers for their expertise.
    Find Arborist Climber jobs in Seattle, WA


  10. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $60,071
    Restaurant managers handle the daily operations of dining establishments, from staffing to inventory management. They ensure customer satisfaction and help create a welcoming atmosphere. Many vibrant restaurants in the region look for strong leaders to drive success.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Seattle, WA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Seattle, WA?

The best-paying companies in Seattle, WA include Palo Alto Networks, which offers an impressive average salary of $244,320. Other top earners include ByteDance and Apple, with average salaries of $224,330 and $211,560 respectively, making these companies highly attractive to job seekers looking for competitive pay.
Graph displaying company salaries in Seattle, WA, highlighting Palo Alto Networks with the highest at $244,320 and Uber with the lowest at $169,110.
  1. Palo Alto Networks
    Average Salary: $244,320
    A global leader in cybersecurity, protecting organizations from cyber threats.


  2. ByteDance
    Average Salary: $224,330
    A technology company known for creating dynamic social media platforms.


  3. Apple
    Average Salary: $211,560
    A world-renowned technology company focused on innovative consumer electronics.


  4. Mindful Therapy Group
    Average Salary: $194,844
    A mental health service provider offering therapy and wellness solutions.


  5. Expedia Partner Solutions
    Average Salary: $193,499
    A leading travel technology company that connects travel suppliers with travelers.


  6. TikTok
    Average Salary: $181,396
    A popular social media platform that allows users to create and share short videos.


  7. DoorDash
    Average Salary: $178,198
    A food delivery service that connects people with their favorite local restaurants.


  8. Qualtrics
    Average Salary: $171,737
    An experience management company that helps organizations manage customer, employee, product, and brand experiences.


  9. Salesforce
    Average Salary: $169,612
    A leading cloud-based software company specializing in customer relationship management.


  10. Uber
    Average Salary: $169,110
    A ride-sharing and delivery service that connects riders with drivers and customers with couriers.

How does the cost of living in Seattle, WA compare to the national average?

Seattle, WA has a cost of living index of 141, which is 41% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means residents in Seattle can expect to pay significantly more for housing, groceries, and other essentials.
Cost of living comparison graph for Seattle, WA vs. Nationwide: housing 92% higher, groceries 18% higher, utilities 16% higher, transportation 7% higher, healthcare 5% higher, miscellaneous 24% higher.

Seattle, WA has a cost of living index that stands at 158, which is significantly higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means that living in Seattle is 58% more expensive than the average city in the United States. When it comes to housing, the situation is even more pronounced, with a housing index of 192. This translates to housing costs being 92% higher than the national average, making it one of the biggest financial considerations for anyone moving to the area.


Other expenses also contribute to Seattle's high cost of living. For example, grocery prices are 18% higher than average, while utilities are 16% above the national average. Transportation costs are slightly lower, but still exceed the average by 7%. Healthcare costs and miscellaneous expenses are also on the rise, with healthcare being 5% above average and miscellaneous expenses 24% higher. Understanding these percentages helps potential residents and job seekers plan their budgets effectively while considering a move to this vibrant city.

Compare Salaries

What are other cities like?
Compare different cities.
Select a city
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
a hand paying employees
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena, CA has a cost of living index of 117, which is 17% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living in Pasadena can be more expensive compared to other parts of the country.
Learn more
Pasadena, TX
The cost of living index in Pasadena, TX is 10% lower than the nationwide average, which is set at 100. With lower costs in housing, groceries, and healthcare, Pasadena offers a budget-friendly option for professionals.
Learn more
Pearland, TX
Pearland, TX, has a cost of living index of 97, which is 3% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This means that residents can enjoy a more affordable lifestyle compared to the national standard.
Learn more
Pembroke Pines, FL
The cost of living index in Pembroke Pines, FL is 107. This means it is 7% higher than the nationwide average of 100.
Learn more
Pflugerville, TX
The cost of living index in Pflugerville, TX is 92.1, which is 7.9% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This lower index reflects more affordable housing, groceries, and utilities compared to many other areas in the country.
Learn more
Pinellas Park, FL
Pinellas Park, FL has a cost of living index of 100, which is equal to the nationwide average. Housing costs are slightly higher at 105, but most other categories, like groceries and utilities, fall below the national average.
Learn more
Plano, TX
The cost of living index in Plano, TX is 105, which is 5% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means that while housing costs are above the average, grocery and healthcare expenses are below average, making it a balanced place to live.
Learn more
Plantation, FL
Plantation, FL has a cost of living index of 104. This is 4% higher than the nationwide average of 100.
Learn more
Pomona, CA
Pomona, CA has a cost of living index of 123, which is 23% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means that residents can expect to pay more for housing, groceries, and transportation compared to the national standard.
Learn more
Pompano Beach, FL
Pompano Beach, FL has a cost of living index of 108.2, which is 8.2% higher than the nationwide average of 100. While housing costs are significantly above average at 26.2% higher, other categories like transportation and healthcare remain below the national average, keeping overall costs manageable.
Learn more
Puyallup, WA
Puyallup, WA has a cost of living index of 106, which is 6% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means residents may spend more on housing and transportation, but benefits can vary depending on lifestyle choices.
Learn more
Quincy, MA
Quincy, MA has a cost of living index of 118, which is 18% higher than the nationwide average. This means residents may spend more on housing, groceries, and other essentials compared to the typical American city.
Learn more
Rancho Cordova, CA
Rancho Cordova, CA has a cost of living index of 114, which is 14% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means residents may spend more on housing, groceries, transportation, and other expenses compared to the average American.
Learn more
Redmond, WA
The cost of living index in Redmond, WA is 172, which is 72% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This higher index mainly reflects increased housing costs, making Redmond a more expensive place to live compared to other areas.
Learn more
Renton, WA
Renton, WA has a cost of living index of 109, which is 9% higher than the nationwide average of 100. Housing costs in Renton are significantly higher, at 22% above the national average, while utilities remain lower at 5% below average.
Learn more
Richardson, TX
Richardson, TX has a cost of living index of 96, which is 4% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes it an affordable place to live compared to many other areas in the country.
Learn more
Riverside, CA
Riverside, CA has a cost of living index of 116, which is 16% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This increase reflects higher expenses in areas like housing, groceries, and transportation.
Learn more
Roseville, CA
The cost of living index in Roseville, CA is 164 for housing, significantly above the nationwide average of 100. Overall, residents experience a cost of living that is about 14% higher than the national average when factoring in all expenses.
Learn more
Round Rock, TX
The cost of living index in Round Rock, TX is 97, which is 3% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This means that living in Round Rock is more affordable compared to many other places in the country.
Learn more
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento, CA has a cost of living index of 104, which is 4% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living in Sacramento is slightly more expensive, especially in areas like housing and groceries.
Learn more
Sammamish, WA
Sammamish, WA has a cost of living index of 117, which is 17% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This reflects notably high housing costs, while healthcare remains more affordable at 10% below the national average.
Learn more
San Antonio, TX
San Antonio, TX has a cost of living index of 89.4, which is 10.6% below the nationwide average of 100. This makes San Antonio an affordable choice for professionals seeking job opportunities.
Learn more
San Diego, CA
San Diego, CA has a cost of living index of 134, which is 34% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This reflects higher expenses in areas like housing and transportation.
Learn more
San Jose, CA
San Jose, CA has a cost of living index of 146, which is 46% higher than the nationwide average of 100. Housing costs significantly drive this increase, with a housing index of 206, making it one of the more expensive cities in the country.
Learn more
San Marcos, CA
The cost of living index in San Marcos, CA stands at 115, which is 15% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This increase is largely driven by elevated housing costs, which are significantly above the national average at 76%.
Learn more
San Marcos, TX
San Marcos, TX has a cost of living index of 92, which is 8% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This means that living in San Marcos is more affordable in several areas, including housing, groceries, and transportation.
Learn more
Sanford, FL
Sanford, FL has a cost of living index of 96, which is 4% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes Sanford an affordable option for job seekers looking to balance their expenses.
Learn more
Santa Clara, CA
Santa Clara, CA has a cost of living index of 168, which is 68% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means that residents pay significantly more for housing, groceries, and transportation compared to most other areas in the country.
Learn more
Santa Clarita, CA
The cost of living index in Santa Clarita, CA is 130, which is 30% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This increase is mainly due to higher housing costs, with an index of 142, reflecting a significant difference from the national average.
Learn more
Schertz, TX
The cost of living index in Schertz, TX is 97, which is 3% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This means residents can enjoy a slightly more affordable lifestyle compared to many other areas in the country.
Learn more
Shoreline, WA
The cost of living index in Shoreline, WA is 118, which is 18% higher than the nationwide average. This indicates higher costs in categories like housing and groceries compared to other areas in the country.
Learn more
Somerville, MA
The cost of living index in Somerville, MA is 165, which is 65% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means residents in Somerville can expect to spend significantly more on housing and other expenses compared to most other areas in the country.
Learn more
Spokane Valley, WA
Spokane Valley, WA has a cost of living index of 98 compared to the nationwide average of 100. This means living in Spokane Valley is about 2% less expensive than the national average.
Learn more
Spokane, WA
Spokane, WA has a cost of living index of 95, which is 5% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes Spokane a more affordable option compared to many other places in the United States.
Learn more
Springfield, MA
Springfield, MA has a cost of living index of 91.1, which is 8.9% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes Springfield an affordable option for professional job seekers looking to relocate.
Learn more
Sugar Land, TX
Sugar Land, TX has a cost of living index of about 104, which is 4% higher than the nationwide average of 100. While housing and groceries are more expensive, utilities and healthcare costs are lower, making it a balanced place to live.
Learn more
Sunnyvale, CA
Sunnyvale, CA has a cost of living index of 131, which is 31% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that residents may face higher expenses in areas like housing and groceries compared to most other parts of the country.
Learn more
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma, WA has a cost of living index of 106, which is 6% higher than the national average of 100. This means that residents pay more for housing and other expenses, while utilities are slightly lower than average.
Learn more
Tallahassee, FL
Tallahassee, FL, has a cost of living index of 92, which is 8% lower than the nationwide average. This means residents enjoy more affordability in areas like housing, groceries, and transportation compared to the national standard.
Learn more
Tampa, FL
Tampa, FL has a cost of living index of 97, which is 3% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes Tampa an attractive option for professionals seeking a more affordable lifestyle while maintaining quality living standards.
Learn more
The Colony, TX
The cost of living index in The Colony, TX is 105, which is 5% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This increase is mainly due to higher housing costs, while grocery and healthcare expenses are below the national average.
Learn more
The Woodlands, TX
The cost of living index in The Woodlands, TX is 101, which is 1% higher than the nationwide average of 100. Housing costs are slightly above average at 4%, while groceries and other sectors remain below or close to the national average.
Learn more
Torrance, CA
The cost of living index in Torrance, CA is 130% higher than the nationwide average. This means residents face significantly increased expenses, especially in housing, which is 83% above the national average.
Learn more
Tukwila, WA
The cost of living index in Tukwila, WA is 108, which is 8% higher than the nationwide average of 100. Residents can expect higher expenses in housing, utilities, and transportation compared to other U.S. locations.
Learn more
Vancouver, WA
The cost of living index in Vancouver, WA is 101.3, which is 1.3% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means that living in Vancouver is slightly more expensive overall compared to the average in the United States.
Learn more
Vista, CA
The cost of living index in Vista, CA is 138, which is 38% higher than the nationwide average of 100. Essentials like groceries and healthcare are also above average, at 2% and 8% higher respectively.
Learn more
Westfield, MA
Westfield, MA has a cost of living index of 99, which is 1% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This means living in Westfield can be more affordable overall compared to many other places in the country.
Learn more
Weston, FL
Weston, FL has a cost of living index of 109, which is 9% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means that residents may expect to pay more for housing, groceries, and transportation compared to the national standard.
Learn more
Worcester, MA
Worcester, MA has a cost of living index of 95.4, which is 4.6% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes Worcester an affordable option for those looking to relocate while still enjoying a good quality of life.
Learn more

There are 10,071 job openings in Seattle, WA, today!

Take a deeper dive into the job market in Seattle, WA

Discover what it's like to work in Seattle, WA. Learn if you need a car, explore popular employers, the job market, and the best neighborhoods to live in.

City
Overview
Seattle, WA
10,071 job openings