Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing — no state income tax. Here's how Database Administrator (DBA)s 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) | $113,600 | $86,300 | $147,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $141,200 | $107,300 | $183,600 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $162,400 | $123,400 | $211,100 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $194,800 | $148,000 | $253,300 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $220,800 | $167,800 | $287,000 |
Highest-paying metros for Database Administrator (DBA)s — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Seattle metro economy.
The average Database Administrator (DBA) salary in the Seattle metro is $162,400 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $123,400 to $211,100 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $267,900 or more.
Yes — Seattle pays +6% relative to the Washington state median for Database Administrator (DBA)s. 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 Database Administrator (DBA)s — though cost of living in Seattle is also typically elevated.
In Seattle, the median Database Administrator (DBA) salary of $162,400 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Database Administrator (DBA)s in Seattle start around $113,600, while seniors (10+ years) reach $194,800 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 →