Data Engineer Salary in Washington
The median data engineer salary in Washington is $158,750 per year, which is 27.0% above the national median of $125,000.
Data Engineer Salary Overview in Washington (2026)
Washington ranks #5 out of 50 states for data engineer compensation. This places Washington in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for data engineers seeking high pay. At $158,750 per year, data engineers in Washington earn $33,750 more than the national median of $125,000.
It's worth noting that Washington's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $158,750 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $138,043.
The salary spread in Washington is significant: data engineers at the 10th percentile earn $99,060, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $241,300 — a $142,240 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 $205,000.
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Washington and beyond.
Data Engineer Salary in Washington by Experience
In Washington, an entry-level data engineer earns around $101,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $228,600 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Washington
| Percentile | WA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $99,060 |
| 25th Percentile | $127,000 |
| Median (50th) | $158,750 |
| 75th Percentile | $200,660 |
| 90th Percentile | $241,300 |
Data Engineer Salary by City in Washington
The largest employment areas for data engineers in Washington include Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Data Engineer in Washington
Education
Most data engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Washington has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Washington
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). Washington's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Data Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $69,850 over your career trajectory.
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