Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing — no state income tax. Here's how Data 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) | $146,600 | $111,400 | $190,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $182,200 | $138,500 | $236,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $209,500 | $159,200 | $272,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $251,400 | $191,000 | $326,700 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $284,900 | $216,500 | $370,300 |
Highest-paying metros for Data Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Seattle metro economy.
The average Data Engineer salary in the Seattle metro is $209,500 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $159,200 to $272,300 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $345,600 or more.
Yes — Seattle pays -1% relative to the Washington state median for Data 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: +40%. That puts Seattle among the stronger US markets for Data Engineers — though cost of living in Seattle is also typically elevated.
In Seattle, the median Data Engineer salary of $209,500 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Data Engineers in Seattle start around $146,600, while seniors (10+ years) reach $251,400 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.
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