Civil Engineer Salary in Seattle, WA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 149.4
$107,930
Median Salary
$116,330
Mean Salary
$72,242
COL-Adjusted
7,250
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $81,440 | $54,511 |
| 25th Percentile | $92,830 | $62,135 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $107,930 | $72,242 |
| 75th Percentile | $133,370 | $89,270 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $160,290 | $107,289 |
What Drives the Range
The $78,850 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Civil Engineer positions in Seattle, WA reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
Seattle, WA's cost-of-living index of 149.4 means that a $107,930 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $72,242 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, this metro area offers a deep talent pool and typically higher total compensation when including equity and bonuses.