College Professor Salary in Tacoma, Washington
The median college professor salary in Tacoma, WA is $92,268 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median and 4.3% below the Washington state average.
College Professor Pay in Tacoma: What to Expect (2026)
Tacoma offers a median college professor salary of $92,268, which is $4,194 below the Washington state average of $96,462. Compared to the national median of $83,880, Tacoma pays above average for this role.
Tacoma's cost of living is 110% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for college professors in Tacoma spans from $49,500 at the 10th percentile to $184,800 at the 90th percentile — a $135,300 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $52,800, while senior college professors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $176,000. With a population of 219,346, Tacoma is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
College Professor Salary in Tacoma by Experience
In Tacoma, an entry-level college professor earns around $52,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $176,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tacoma, WA
| Percentile | Tacoma |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $49,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $66,000 |
| Median (50th) | $92,268 |
| 75th Percentile | $132,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $184,800 |
College Professor Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a College Professor in Tacoma
Education
Most college professor positions require a doctoral degree. Tacoma and the surrounding Washington area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, college professor employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Tacoma may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find College Professor Jobs in Tacoma
Browse open college professor positions in Tacoma, WA: