Archivist Salary in Washington
The median archivist salary in Washington is $67,436 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $58,640.
Archivist Salary Overview in Washington (2026)
Washington ranks #7 out of 50 states for archivist compensation. This places Washington in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for archivists seeking high pay. At $67,436 per year, archivists in Washington earn $8,796 more than the national median of $58,640.
It's worth noting that Washington's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $67,436 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $58,640.
The salary spread in Washington is significant: archivists at the 10th percentile earn $41,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $108,100 — a $66,700 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Washington for this role is Bellevue, where the median reaches $89,133.
Nationally, archivist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for archivists across the country.
Archivist Salary in Washington by Experience
In Washington, an entry-level archivist earns around $43,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $101,200 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Washington
| Percentile | WA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $41,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,900 |
| Median (50th) | $67,436 |
| 75th Percentile | $87,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $108,100 |
Archivist Salary by City in Washington
The largest employment areas for archivists in Washington include Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Archivist in Washington
Education
Most archivist positions require a master's degree. Washington has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Washington
Nationally, archivist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Washington's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Archivists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $33,764 over your career trajectory.
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