Geologist Salary in Tacoma, Washington
The median geologist salary in Tacoma, WA is $92,048 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median and 4.3% below the Washington state average.
Geologist Pay in Tacoma: What to Expect (2026)
Tacoma offers a median geologist salary of $92,048, which is $4,184 below the Washington state average of $96,232. Compared to the national median of $83,680, 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 geologists in Tacoma spans from $56,100 at the 10th percentile to $162,800 at the 90th percentile — a $106,700 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $59,400, while senior geologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $154,000. With a population of 219,346, Tacoma is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Geologist Salary in Tacoma by Experience
In Tacoma, an entry-level geologist earns around $59,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $154,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tacoma, WA
| Percentile | Tacoma |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $56,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $69,300 |
| Median (50th) | $92,048 |
| 75th Percentile | $123,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $162,800 |
Geologist Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Geologist in Tacoma
Education
Most geologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Tacoma and the surrounding Washington area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Tacoma may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Geologist Jobs in Tacoma
Browse open geologist positions in Tacoma, WA: