Average Salaries in Seattle, WA
Explore salary data for all occupations in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metropolitan area.
Average Salary
$101,513
across all occupations
Highest Paying Job
$293,729
Physician
Occupations Covered
80
jobs with salary data
Cost of Living: Seattle, WA has a cost of living that is 49.6% above the national average. Consider this when comparing salaries.
Salaries in Seattle, WA by Occupation
About Working in Seattle, WA
The Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metropolitan area is a major technology hub home to Amazon, Microsoft, and many other tech companies. Known for its natural beauty, coffee culture, and progressive values, Seattle offers high salaries, particularly in technology, with a quality of life that attracts talent from around the world.
Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the average salary across all occupations in Seattle, WA is $101,513 per year. Salaries range from $41,199 for Childcare Workers to $293,729 for Physicians. The metropolitan area employs approximately 58,555 workers across the 80 occupations we track.
Seattle, WA Economy Overview
Seattle's economy is heavily influenced by technology, with Amazon and Microsoft as anchor employers. Boeing and the aerospace industry remain significant, along with healthcare, retail, and international trade. The city has a strong startup ecosystem and continues to attract tech companies and workers.
Major Industries in Seattle, WA
The Seattle, WA job market is driven by these key industries:
Cost of Living Considerations
Seattle's cost of living has increased significantly due to tech industry growth. Housing costs have risen dramatically, though they remain somewhat lower than San Francisco. There is no state income tax in Washington, which provides a meaningful boost to take-home pay for high earners.
Cost of Living Index: 149.6(49.6% above national average)
Job Market Insights
Seattle's tech job market is extremely strong, with intense competition for software engineers, data scientists, and product managers. Amazon and Microsoft hire thousands of tech workers, and the startup ecosystem continues to grow. Healthcare and aerospace also offer significant opportunities.
Quality of Life in Seattle, WA
Seattle offers stunning natural beauty with easy access to mountains, water, and forests. The mild (if rainy) climate, progressive culture, and strong food and coffee scenes attract many. The tech industry dominance has changed the city's character, and housing affordability remains a challenge for many workers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Salaries in Seattle, WA
What is the average salary in Seattle, WA?
The average salary across all occupations in Seattle, WA is approximately $101,513 per year. However, salaries vary significantly by occupation, experience level, and industry.
What are the highest paying jobs in Seattle, WA?
The highest paying occupation in Seattle, WA based on our data is Physician with an average salary of $293,729 per year. Other high-paying occupations can be found in the salary table above.
How does the cost of living affect salaries in Seattle, WA?
With a cost of living 49.6% above the national average, salaries in Seattle, WA tend to be higher to compensate. However, it's important to consider your overall financial picture, including housing, transportation, and other expenses.
Is Seattle, WA a good place to find a job?
Seattle, WA offers diverse employment opportunities across multiple industries. With 58,555 workers employed across the occupations we track, the metropolitan area has a substantial job market. Your prospects will depend on your industry, skills, and experience level.