Economist Salary in Tacoma, Washington
The median economist salary in Tacoma, WA is $125,334 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median and 4.3% below the Washington state average.
Economist Pay in Tacoma: What to Expect (2026)
Tacoma offers a median economist salary of $125,334, which is $5,697 below the Washington state average of $131,031. Compared to the national median of $113,940, 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 economists in Tacoma spans from $68,200 at the 10th percentile to $217,800 at the 90th percentile — a $149,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $71,500, while senior economists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $203,500. With a population of 219,346, Tacoma is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Economist Salary in Tacoma by Experience
In Tacoma, an entry-level economist earns around $71,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $203,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tacoma, WA
| Percentile | Tacoma |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $68,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,200 |
| Median (50th) | $125,334 |
| 75th Percentile | $170,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $217,800 |
Economist Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Economist in Tacoma
Education
Most economist positions require a master's degree. Tacoma and the surrounding Washington area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Tacoma may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Economist Jobs in Tacoma
Browse open economist positions in Tacoma, WA: