Salaries in Seattle, WA

Updated on Apr 14, 2025
City
Salary

What is the average salary in Seattle, WA?

The average salary in Seattle, WA is $97,038 per year.

Seattle, WA, offers a vibrant job market with competitive salaries across various industries. The average yearly salary in the city stands at $97,038, reflecting a robust economic landscape. The salary distribution showcases a range of opportunities, with the majority of professionals earning between $74,045 and $126,614 annually. This distribution highlights the city's appeal for job seekers looking for both entry-level and advanced positions. Whether you're in technology, healthcare, finance, or other sectors, Seattle provides a range of earning potentials that align with your career aspirations. Explore the diverse job opportunities and consider how your skills can fit into this dynamic market.

View Jobs in Seattle, WA

What are the best paying jobs in Seattle, WA?

Seattle offers a range of high-paying job opportunities across various sectors. Physicians, including Primary Care and Internal Medicine Physicians, command top salaries, reflecting the city's strong healthcare industry. Technology and engineering roles, such as Machine Learning Engineer and Principal Engineer, also provide lucrative career paths. Additionally, leadership positions like Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Director offer substantial compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Seattle, WA, highlighting Physician with the highest at $274,429 and Staff Engineer with the lowest at $188,722.
  1. Physician
    Average Salary: $274,429
    Physicians in Seattle work in various settings, including hospitals and private practices. They diagnose and treat illnesses, often collaborating with specialists. Notable employers include Virginia Mason Medical Center and Seattle Children's Hospital.
    Find Physician jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. Primary Care Physician
    Average Salary: $235,644
    Primary care physicians focus on general health and wellness. They provide routine check-ups and manage chronic conditions. Key employers include Kaiser Permanente and Group Health Cooperative.
    Find Primary Care Physician jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Professor
    Average Salary: $226,023
    Professors in Seattle teach and conduct research at universities. They engage in academic activities and mentor students. Major institutions include the University of Washington and Seattle University.
    Find Professor jobs in Seattle, WA


  4. Internal Medicine Physician
    Average Salary: $218,557
    Internal medicine physicians specialize in adult care. They diagnose and treat complex medical conditions. They often work at multi-specialty clinics or hospitals like Swedish Medical Center.
    Find Internal Medicine Physician jobs in Seattle, WA


  5. Deputy Director
    Average Salary: $217,675
    Deputy directors assist in managing organizations. They oversee operations and implement strategic plans. They work in sectors like healthcare and education, often at institutions like Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center.
    Find Deputy Director jobs in Seattle, WA


  6. General Dentist
    Average Salary: $211,151
    General dentists provide routine dental care. They perform cleanings, fillings, and extractions. They often work in private practices or dental clinics, such as those affiliated with the University of Washington.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Seattle, WA


  7. Machine Learning Engineer
    Average Salary: $198,885
    Machine learning engineers develop algorithms and models. They work on data-driven projects to improve systems. They often collaborate with tech companies like Amazon and Microsoft.
    Find Machine Learning Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA


  8. Chief Operating Officer
    Average Salary: $197,184
    Chief operating officers manage day-to-day operations. They ensure efficiency and effectiveness in business processes. They often work in sectors like healthcare and finance, at companies like Providence Health & Services.
    Find Chief Operating Officer jobs in Seattle, WA


  9. Principal Engineer
    Average Salary: $196,220
    Principal engineers lead engineering teams. They design and implement technical solutions. They often work in tech companies like Amazon and Microsoft, focusing on software development.
    Find Principal Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA


  10. Staff Engineer
    Average Salary: $188,722
    Staff engineers contribute to engineering projects. They work on developing and maintaining software systems. They often collaborate with cross-functional teams in tech companies like Amazon and Microsoft.
    Find Staff Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA

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

Seattle offers several high-paying job opportunities that do not require a degree. Among these, roles such as Floating Operator, Equipment Manager, and Kitchen Manager stand out with competitive salaries. These positions provide a pathway to financial stability and career growth without the need for formal education.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Seattle, WA without a degree, highlighting Floating Operator with the highest at $113,142 and Recreation Assistant with the lowest at $54,396.
  1. Floating Operator
    Average Salary: $113,142
    This role involves overseeing the installation of floating floors. Companies like Floor Coverings International and Floors & Decor offer opportunities in this field. The job requires attention to detail and a strong understanding of construction techniques.
    Find Floating Operator jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. Equipment Manager
    Average Salary: $91,423
    Managing and maintaining equipment for various industries is a key responsibility. Companies like Rent-A-Center and U-Haul have openings for this role. It requires strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects.
    Find Equipment Manager jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. Kitchen Manager
    Average Salary: $89,589
    Overseeing kitchen operations and staff is crucial in this role. Restaurants like IHOP and Panera Bread offer positions. The job demands excellent leadership skills and a passion for food service.
    Find Kitchen Manager jobs in Seattle, WA


  4. Applicator
    Average Salary: $75,465
    Applying coatings and finishes to various surfaces is the main task. Companies like Sherwin-Williams and PPG Industries offer opportunities. The role requires precision and a keen eye for detail.
    Find Applicator jobs in Seattle, WA


  5. Canvasser
    Average Salary: $69,504
    Door-to-door sales and promotions are part of this job. Companies like Amazon Flex and Uber Eats offer positions. It requires strong communication skills and the ability to work independently.
    Find Canvasser jobs in Seattle, WA


  6. Concrete Finisher
    Average Salary: $65,857
    Preparing and finishing concrete surfaces is a key responsibility. Companies like Kiewit and Clark Construction offer opportunities. The job requires physical strength and attention to detail.
    Find Concrete Finisher jobs in Seattle, WA


  7. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $60,860
    Managing daily operations and staff is crucial in this role. Restaurants like Chipotle and Starbucks offer positions. The job demands excellent leadership skills and a passion for food service.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Seattle, WA


  8. To Go Specialist
    Average Salary: $58,364
    Preparing and packaging food for takeout is the main task. Restaurants like McDonald's and Subway offer positions. The role requires strong attention to detail and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
    Find To Go Specialist jobs in Seattle, WA


  9. Arborist Climber
    Average Salary: $57,212
    Climbing trees and performing maintenance is a key responsibility. Companies like Davey Tree and Tree Newal offer opportunities. The job requires physical strength and a strong understanding of tree care.
    Find Arborist Climber jobs in Seattle, WA


  10. Recreation Assistant
    Average Salary: $54,396
    Assisting in the planning and execution of recreational activities is crucial in this role. Companies like YMCA and Boys & Girls Clubs offer positions. The job demands strong communication skills and a passion for working with people.
    Find Recreation Assistant jobs in Seattle, WA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Seattle, WA?

Seattle offers a variety of high-paying job opportunities across several top companies. Palo Alto Networks leads the pack with an average salary of $257,658, followed closely by ByteDance and Apple. Other notable companies like Expedia Partner Solutions, TikTok, and DoorDash also provide competitive compensation packages.
Graph displaying company salaries in Seattle, WA, highlighting Palo Alto Networks with the highest at $257,658 and Uber with the lowest at $171,658.
  1. Palo Alto Networks
    Average Salary: $257,658
    Palo Alto Networks is a cybersecurity company that provides advanced network security solutions.


  2. ByteDance
    Average Salary: $220,864
    ByteDance is a technology company known for creating TikTok, a popular social media platform.


  3. Apple
    Average Salary: $213,259
    Apple is a global technology company renowned for its innovative products, including the iPhone, iPad, and Mac.


  4. Expedia Partner Solutions
    Average Salary: $194,066
    Expedia Partner Solutions is a leading global travel technology company that connects travelers with travel options.


  5. TikTok
    Average Salary: $181,245
    TikTok is a social media platform that allows users to create and share short videos.


  6. DoorDash
    Average Salary: $177,639
    DoorDash is a food delivery service that connects customers with local restaurants for convenient meal delivery.


  7. Mindful Therapy Group
    Average Salary: $177,581
    Mindful Therapy Group is a mental health organization that provides accessible and affordable therapy services.


  8. Qualtrics
    Average Salary: $175,872
    Qualtrics is a software company that specializes in experience management and customer feedback solutions.


  9. Expedia Group
    Average Salary: $175,700
    Expedia Group is a global travel company that offers a wide range of travel services and products.


  10. Uber
    Average Salary: $171,658
    Uber is a ride-sharing platform that connects drivers with passengers for convenient transportation services.

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

Seattle, WA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 128. This indicates that living expenses in Seattle are approximately 28% greater than the national average.
Cost of living comparison graph for Seattle, WA vs. Nationwide: housing 107% higher, groceries 24% higher, utilities 14% higher, transportation 12% higher, healthcare 4% lower, miscellaneous 5% higher.

Seattle, WA, stands out with a cost of living index that significantly exceeds the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Seattle are particularly high, with an index of 207. This means that housing expenses in Seattle are nearly double the national average, making it one of the most expensive areas to live in the country. For job seekers considering Seattle, this high cost of living in housing should be a major factor in their budget planning.


Other areas of spending also reflect Seattle's elevated cost of living. Groceries, for example, have an index of 124, indicating that grocery costs are 24% higher than the national average. Utilities and transportation costs are also above the average, with indices of 114 and 112, respectively. These figures suggest that while Seattle offers a vibrant lifestyle and numerous professional opportunities, it also demands a higher financial commitment from its residents. Healthcare costs, however, are slightly below the national average at 96, offering a slight reprieve in an otherwise costly living environment.

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, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 121. This indicates that living expenses in Pasadena are 21% greater than the national average.
Learn more
Pasadena, TX
Pasadena, TX, boasts a cost of living index that is 94.4% of the nationwide average, making it a relatively affordable place to live. This index reflects a balanced distribution across various categories, including housing, groceries, and utilities, offering a cost-effective living option for professionals.
Learn more
Pearland, TX
Pearland, TX, presents a cost of living index that is 98% of the nationwide average, indicating a slightly lower cost of living. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between affordability and quality of life.
Learn more
Pembroke Pines, FL
Pembroke Pines, FL, exhibits a cost of living index that is 10% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation also slightly exceed the national average, while utilities and healthcare remain close to it.
Learn more
Pflugerville, TX
Pflugerville, TX, presents a cost of living index that is 95% of the nationwide average, indicating a slightly lower overall cost of living. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between affordability and quality of life.
Learn more
Pinellas Park, FL
Pinellas Park, FL, boasts a cost of living index that is 97% of the nationwide average, reflecting a slightly lower overall cost of living. Notably, the housing and utilities sectors contribute to this favorable comparison, with indices of 95% and 96%, respectively.
Learn more
Plano, TX
Plano, TX, exhibits a cost of living index of 105, which is 5% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This suggests that overall expenses in Plano are slightly above the national standard.
Learn more
Plantation, FL
Plantation, FL, exhibits a cost of living index that is 12% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation also slightly exceed the national average, while utilities and healthcare remain relatively close to it.
Learn more
Pomona, CA
Pomona, CA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 52% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and utilities also show slight increases, while healthcare costs remain below the national average.
Learn more
Pompano Beach, FL
Pompano Beach, FL, exhibits a cost of living index that is 10% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation also surpass the national average, while utilities and healthcare remain slightly below.
Learn more
Puyallup, WA
Puyallup, WA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 10% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and miscellaneous expenses also surpass the national average, while utilities and transportation remain relatively close to the benchmark.
Learn more
Quincy, MA
Quincy, MA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 125%. This indicates that residents can expect to spend 25% more across various living expenses.
Learn more
Rancho Cordova, CA
The cost of living index in Rancho Cordova, CA, stands at 115%, surpassing the nationwide average by 15%. This indicates that living expenses in Rancho Cordova are generally higher than the national average.
Learn more
Redmond, WA
Redmond, WA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 45% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories such as groceries and miscellaneous expenses also surpass the national average, though to a lesser extent.
Learn more
Renton, WA
The cost of living index in Renton, WA, stands at 120, which is 20% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This elevated index reflects higher expenses in various sectors, including housing and healthcare.
Learn more
Richardson, TX
The cost of living index in Richardson, TX, stands at 105, which is 5% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that overall expenses in Richardson are slightly above the national average.
Learn more
Riverside, CA
Riverside, CA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 23% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. This makes Riverside a noteworthy location for job seekers considering the overall living expenses.
Learn more
Roseville, CA
Roseville, CA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with a cost of living index of 128. This indicates that living expenses in Roseville are 28% above the national average.
Learn more
Round Rock, TX
The cost of living index in Round Rock, TX, stands at 101, slightly above the nationwide average of 100. Housing, groceries, and healthcare costs are notably higher, while utilities and transportation costs are relatively lower.
Learn more
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento, CA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 10% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Despite this, other categories like groceries and utilities remain relatively close to the national average.
Learn more
Sammamish, WA
Sammamish, WA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 72% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by a 72% increase in housing costs. Other categories like groceries and utilities also show above-average expenses, making it a significant consideration for job seekers.
Learn more
San Antonio, TX
San Antonio, TX, boasts a cost of living index that is 92% of the nationwide average, making it a more affordable option for many professional job seekers. This index reflects lower housing costs and competitive prices across other essential categories.
Learn more
San Diego, CA
San Diego, CA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 46% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation also surpass the national average, contributing to the overall higher living expenses.
Learn more
San Jose, CA
San Jose, CA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 139.8. This represents a 39.8% increase over the national average of 100.
Learn more
San Marcos, CA
San Marcos, CA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 118. Housing costs notably stand at 62% above the national average, making it a significant factor in the city's elevated cost of living.
Learn more
San Marcos, TX
San Marcos, TX, boasts a cost of living index that is 94% of the nationwide average, reflecting a generally affordable living environment. This index, derived from housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses, positions San Marcos as a competitive choice for cost-conscious professionals.
Learn more
Sanford, FL
Sanford, FL, boasts a cost of living index that is 95% of the nationwide average, indicating a slightly lower cost of living in this area. This makes Sanford an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle without compromising on quality.
Learn more
Santa Clara, CA
Santa Clara, CA, boasts a cost of living index that is 189.9% of the nationwide average, reflecting significantly higher expenses, particularly in housing. This elevated index underscores the importance of considering these costs when planning a move to the area.
Learn more
Santa Clarita, CA
Santa Clarita, CA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 116. This indicates that living expenses in Santa Clarita are 16% above the national average.
Learn more
Schertz, TX
Schertz, TX, boasts a cost of living index that is 96% of the nationwide average, making it a slightly more affordable option for professional job seekers. Notably, housing costs in Schertz are 5% below the national average, offering a potential advantage for those relocating.
Learn more
Shoreline, WA
Shoreline, WA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 165% of the nationwide average in housing, reflecting a significant premium. Other categories like groceries and transportation also surpass the average, with indices at 110% and 120%, respectively.
Learn more
Somerville, MA
Somerville, MA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 17.3% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and utilities remain close to the national average, making Somerville a competitive option for those prioritizing specific living expenses.
Learn more
Spokane Valley, WA
Spokane Valley, WA, presents a cost of living index of 98, which is slightly below the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living expenses in Spokane Valley are generally 2% lower than the national average.
Learn more
Spokane, WA
Spokane, WA, presents a cost of living index that is 90% of the nationwide average, indicating a relatively affordable living environment for job seekers. This index reflects lower costs in housing and miscellaneous expenses, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Learn more
Springfield, MA
Springfield, MA, boasts a cost of living index that is 91% of the nationwide average, indicating a relatively affordable living environment for professional job seekers. Notably, housing costs are 22% below the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly housing.
Learn more
Sugar Land, TX
The cost of living index in Sugar Land, TX, stands at 99, slightly below the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living expenses in Sugar Land are nearly on par with the national average.
Learn more
Sunnyvale, CA
Sunnyvale, CA, exhibits a significantly higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 165. This represents a 65% increase over the national benchmark of 100.
Learn more
Tacoma, WA
Tacoma, WA, exhibits a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, with an overall index of 110. This indicates that living expenses in Tacoma are 10% above the national average.
Learn more
Tallahassee, FL
The cost of living index in Tallahassee, FL, stands at 91, which is 1% below the nationwide average of 100. This slight decrease suggests that living expenses in Tallahassee are marginally more affordable than the average American city.
Learn more
Tampa, FL
Tampa, FL, boasts a cost of living index that is 96% of the nationwide average, making it a relatively affordable place to live. Housing, groceries, and miscellaneous costs are slightly below the national average, while transportation costs are slightly above.
Learn more
The Colony, TX
The Colony, TX, boasts a cost of living index of 95, which is 5% lower than the nationwide average of 100. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable living environment.
Learn more
The Woodlands, TX
The Woodlands, TX, exhibits a cost of living index that is 10% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation remain slightly below the national average.
Learn more
Torrance, CA
The cost of living index in Torrance, CA, stands at 138, surpassing the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living expenses in Torrance are 38% higher than the national average.
Learn more
Tukwila, WA
Tukwila, WA, exhibits a cost of living index that is 34% higher than the nationwide average in housing, while other categories like groceries and healthcare remain relatively close to the national average, making it a balanced consideration for job seekers.
Learn more
Vancouver, WA
Vancouver, WA's cost of living index stands at 98, slightly below the nationwide average of 100. This indicates that living expenses in Vancouver are generally 2% less than the national average.
Learn more
Vista, CA
The cost of living index in Vista, CA, stands at 124, which is 24% higher than the nationwide average of 100. This elevated index reflects higher expenses, particularly in housing, which is 79% above the national average.
Learn more
Westfield, MA
Westfield, MA, presents a cost of living index that is 98% of the nationwide average, indicating a slightly lower overall cost of living. Housing and miscellaneous expenses are notably lower, while utilities and healthcare costs are marginally higher.
Learn more
Weston, FL
Weston, FL, exhibits a cost of living index that is 15% higher than the nationwide average, primarily driven by elevated housing costs. Other categories like groceries and transportation also show modest increases, while utilities and healthcare remain close to the national average.
Learn more
Worcester, MA
Worcester, MA, presents a cost of living index that is 99% of the nationwide average, indicating a slightly lower cost of living in most areas. Notably, housing and utilities are below the national average, while groceries and transportation exceed it.
Learn more

There are 11,893 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
11,893 job openings