Paralegal Salary in Seattle, WA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Legal · COL Index: 149.4
$84,950
Median Salary
$90,680
Mean Salary
$56,861
COL-Adjusted
6,420
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $57,920 | $38,768 |
| 25th Percentile | $74,560 | $49,906 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $84,950 | $56,861 |
| 75th Percentile | $110,930 | $74,250 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $125,660 | $84,110 |
What Drives the Range
The $67,740 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Paralegal 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 $84,950 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $56,861 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.