Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing — no state income tax. Here's how Aerospace Engineers in Seattle get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Seattle metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $135,300 | $102,800 | $175,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $168,100 | $127,800 | $218,500 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $193,300 | $146,900 | $251,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $231,900 | $176,200 | $301,400 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $262,800 | $199,700 | $341,600 |
Highest-paying metros for Aerospace Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Seattle metro economy.
The average Aerospace Engineer salary in the Seattle metro is $193,300 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $146,900 to $251,200 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $318,900 or more.
Yes — Seattle pays +6% relative to the Washington state median for Aerospace Engineers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Seattle vs. national: +38%. That puts Seattle among the stronger US markets for Aerospace Engineers — though cost of living in Seattle is also typically elevated.
In Seattle, the median Aerospace Engineer salary of $193,300 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Aerospace Engineers in Seattle start around $135,300, while seniors (10+ years) reach $231,900 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
Get my personal salary report →