Salaries in Tacoma, WA

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
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What is the average salary in Tacoma, WA?

The average salary in Tacoma, WA is $73,106 per year.

Salaries in Tacoma, WA, show a diverse range, reflecting the variety of jobs available in the area. The average yearly salary stands at $73,106, which highlights a decent earning potential for professionals. Many jobs fall within different salary brackets, allowing job seekers to find opportunities that match their skills and experience.


About 31.8% of jobs offer a salary around $32,560, which serves as an entry-level wage. As skill levels and experience increase, salary ranges rise significantly. For instance, 19.5% of positions pay around $45,673, while 11.7% offer $58,785. Higher salaries attract more experienced professionals; you can find 8.6% of jobs nearing $71,898 and 6.0% at $85,011.


The upper end of the salary range features positions that pay even more. Approximately 5.8% of jobs can earn around $98,124, and 4.8% offer $111,236. For those with extensive experience or specialized skills, salaries can reach as high as $150,575, with the top 1% offering salaries of $176,800.


Overall, Tacoma presents a variety of salary levels, making it possible for job seekers to pursue roles that fit their salary expectations and professional goals.

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What are the best paying jobs in Tacoma, WA?

The top paying jobs in Tacoma, WA reflect strong demand for healthcare professionals. Positions such as Physicians and Hospitalists lead with impressive average salaries, earning over $264,000 annually. General Dentists and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists also enjoy high compensation, with salaries ranging between $243,000 and $256,000. Other rewarding roles include Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants, with earnings above $145,000, showcasing Tacoma's robust job market in the healthcare sector.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Tacoma, WA, highlighting Physician with the highest at $298,094 and Clinical Psychologist with the lowest at $132,378.
  1. Physician
    Average Salary: $298,094
    This role requires providing high-level medical care to patients in Tacoma. Local hospitals and private practices often seek qualified professionals to join their teams. With a focus on patient-centered care, physicians can make a significant impact on community health.
    Find Physician jobs in Tacoma, WA


  2. Hospitalist
    Average Salary: $264,869
    Hospitalists manage patient care during hospital stays, ensuring quality treatment and effective communication. Many healthcare facilities in Tacoma rely on these specialists to oversee inpatient care. The role involves collaborating with various departments to enhance patient outcomes.
    Find Hospitalist jobs in Tacoma, WA


  3. General Dentist
    Average Salary: $256,959
    General dentists offer comprehensive dental care, including exams, cleanings, and restorative work. Tacoma clinics and practices frequently seek skilled dentists to meet the community's oral health needs. This role allows for building lasting relationships with patients through regular visits.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Tacoma, WA


  4. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
    Average Salary: $243,580
    Nurse anesthetists play a crucial role in providing anesthesia care for patients undergoing surgery. In Tacoma, healthcare systems actively recruit these advanced practice nurses to ensure patient safety and comfort. This position combines critical thinking with hands-on care during procedures.
    Find Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist jobs in Tacoma, WA


  5. Solar Sales Representative
    Average Salary: $160,028
    These professionals promote and sell solar energy solutions to homeowners and businesses. Tacoma's growing focus on renewable energy creates job opportunities in this field. Representatives educate clients on the benefits of solar energy and guide them through the installation process.
    Find Solar Sales Representative jobs in Tacoma, WA


  6. Nurse Practitioner
    Average Salary: $150,485
    Nurse practitioners provide primary and specialty care, often acting as a patient's main healthcare provider. With healthcare demands rising in Tacoma, this role offers many opportunities for skilled practitioners. They focus on patient education, prevention, and managing chronic illnesses.
    Find Nurse Practitioner jobs in Tacoma, WA


  7. Physician Assistant
    Average Salary: $145,839
    Physician assistants support doctors in delivering quality healthcare services to patients. Tacoma's healthcare facilities utilize these skilled professionals to enhance patient care delivery. Their ability to diagnose and treat illnesses makes them invaluable in any medical setting.
    Find Physician Assistant jobs in Tacoma, WA


  8. Advanced Practice Provider
    Average Salary: $145,826
    Advanced practice providers, including nurse practitioners and physician assistants, play key roles in healthcare. In Tacoma, they often collaborate with physicians to provide comprehensive patient care. Their expertise allows them to perform many tasks traditionally reserved for doctors.
    Find Advanced Practice Provider jobs in Tacoma, WA


  9. Dental Hygienist
    Average Salary: $135,221
    Dental hygienists focus on preventive oral health care, performing cleanings and educating patients. Many dental offices in Tacoma look for hygienists to help maintain patient health. This career allows for meaningful interactions with patients while promoting good dental habits.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Tacoma, WA


  10. Clinical Psychologist
    Average Salary: $132,378
    Clinical psychologists assess and treat mental health issues through therapy and consultation. Tacoma has a growing need for mental health professionals to support community wellness. Their work often involves collaborating with other healthcare providers to create holistic treatment plans.
    Find Clinical Psychologist jobs in Tacoma, WA

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

In Tacoma, WA, several high-paying jobs do not require a degree. Positions such as Float Operator, Outside Sales Representative, and Concrete Finisher can earn salaries ranging from about $46,000 to over $86,000 annually. Other notable roles include Kitchen Manager and Landscaper, offering competitive wages that highlight the potential for success without a formal degree.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Tacoma, WA without a degree, highlighting Float Operator with the highest at $86,429 and Meat Cutter with the lowest at $45,393.
  1. Float Operator
    Average Salary: $86,429
    This role focuses on monitoring and controlling equipment processes in various industries. Companies like Weyerhaeuser and General Dynamics often seek skilled individuals for this position. With hands-on experience, you can excel in managing heavy machinery to ensure smooth operations.
    Find Float Operator jobs in Tacoma, WA


  2. Outside Sales Representative
    Average Salary: $81,285
    Sales representatives promote products and services to clients outside the office. Local businesses, including Verizon and Coca-Cola, actively look for talented individuals. Building relationships and effective communication are key to securing sales and driving revenue.
    Find Outside Sales Representative jobs in Tacoma, WA


  3. Concrete Finisher
    Average Salary: $81,205
    Concrete finishers play an essential role in the construction industry by laying and finishing concrete. Contractors in Tacoma frequently hire skilled workers to ensure quality workmanship on projects. Attention to detail and physical stamina are vital for success in this field.
    Find Concrete Finisher jobs in Tacoma, WA


  4. Canvasser
    Average Salary: $76,196
    Canvassers engage with the community to gather information and promote various services or campaigns. Organizations, including political groups and local nonprofits, value persuasive communicators. This job allows you to connect with people and impact their decisions.
    Find Canvasser jobs in Tacoma, WA


  5. Irrigation Technician
    Average Salary: $55,327
    Irrigation technicians install and maintain systems that deliver water to plants and landscapes. Local landscaping companies and agricultural businesses seek specialists to ensure efficient water usage. This role requires technical skills and a passion for maintaining green spaces.
    Find Irrigation Technician jobs in Tacoma, WA


  6. Kitchen Manager
    Average Salary: $53,043
    A kitchen manager oversees food preparation and kitchen staff in restaurants and catering companies. Various eateries in Tacoma rely on strong leaders to maintain high standards of quality and efficiency. Experience in the food service industry is beneficial for this position.
    Find Kitchen Manager jobs in Tacoma, WA


  7. Landscaper
    Average Salary: $48,627
    Landscapers design and maintain outdoor spaces, enhancing the beauty of homes and businesses. Local firms often hire creative individuals who can work with plants and landscaping materials. This job allows you to work outside and see the results of your labor.
    Find Landscaper jobs in Tacoma, WA


  8. Recreation Assistant
    Average Salary: $46,488
    Recreation assistants help organize and lead activities for community centers or parks. Local government agencies and recreational organizations look for capable individuals to engage the public. This position offers a chance to contribute to the community's well-being.
    Find Recreation Assistant jobs in Tacoma, WA


  9. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $46,055
    Restaurant managers coordinate daily operations, ensuring a smooth experience for guests. Many local dining establishments in Tacoma seek strong leaders to drive success. This role typically involves managing staff, finances, and customer relations.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Tacoma, WA


  10. Meat Cutter
    Average Salary: $45,393
    Meat cutters prepare and portion meat products for retail or wholesale distribution. Grocery stores and butcher shops often employ skilled individuals for this position. Attention to detail and knife skills are crucial in delivering quality products to customers.
    Find Meat Cutter jobs in Tacoma, WA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Tacoma, WA?

In Tacoma, WA, some of the best-paying companies include Global Talent Partners with an impressive average salary of $150,000, followed closely by Nomad Health at $130,119. Other well-paying employers are Par Pacific Holdings, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, and Electrical Consultants, Inc., with average salaries ranging from about $113,000 to $118,000, offering solid pay opportunities for job seekers.
Graph displaying company salaries in Tacoma, WA, highlighting Global Talent Partners with the highest at $150,000 and Caldera Care with the lowest at $103,913.
  1. Global Talent Partners
    Average Salary: $150,000
    Global Talent Partners connects skilled professionals with great employers, focusing on diverse industries.


  2. Nomad Health
    Average Salary: $130,119
    Nomad Health helps healthcare professionals find temporary and permanent job opportunities across the country.


  3. Par Pacific Holdings
    Average Salary: $118,206
    Par Pacific Holdings operates in the energy sector, providing strategic logistics and distribution services.


  4. Virginia Mason Franciscan Health
    Average Salary: $115,182
    This healthcare organization offers a wide range of medical services to promote health and well-being.


  5. Electrical Consultants, Inc.
    Average Salary: $113,667
    Electrical Consultants, Inc. specializes in the design and engineering of electrical systems for various industries.


  6. Deloitte
    Average Salary: $113,558
    Deloitte is a leading global firm providing audit, consulting, and tax services to businesses and organizations.


  7. LifeStance Health
    Average Salary: $109,617
    LifeStance Health focuses on mental health services, offering support to individuals across various needs.


  8. FUSION Medical Staffing
    Average Salary: $106,985
    FUSION Medical Staffing connects healthcare professionals with travel and per diem positions nationwide.


  9. Optum
    Average Salary: $106,038
    Optum delivers healthcare solutions through technology and care services across the United States.


  10. Caldera Care
    Average Salary: $103,913
    Caldera Care operates skilled nursing facilities, focusing on compassionate care and enhancing quality of life.

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

The cost of living index in Tacoma, WA is 115, which is 15% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This increase mainly comes from higher housing and transportation costs.
Cost of living comparison graph for Tacoma, WA vs. Nationwide: housing 30% higher, groceries 5% higher, utilities 5% lower, transportation 10% higher, healthcare 0% lower, miscellaneous 2% higher.

Tacoma, WA has a cost of living index of 110, which is 10% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This means that overall expenses in Tacoma are notably greater compared to many other places across the country. One of the biggest factors contributing to this increase is housing, which sits at a high index of 130, indicating a 30% rise over the national average. Those considering a move to Tacoma should be prepared for higher housing costs.


Other categories also show how Tacoma's living expenses can vary. Groceries are slightly above the national average, with a cost index of 105, meaning they cost about 5% more. Transportation costs are also higher, with an index of 110, demonstrating a 10% increase. However, residents benefit from lower utility expenses, which are at 95, or 5% below the national average. Overall, while some costs are elevated, there are areas where savings can still be found in Tacoma, making it a city worth exploring for many professional job seekers.

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Tacoma, WA
2,914 job openings