Lawyer Salary in Tacoma, Washington
The median lawyer salary in Tacoma, WA is $149,314 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median and 4.3% below the Washington state average.
Lawyer Pay in Tacoma: What to Expect (2026)
Tacoma offers a median lawyer salary of $149,314, which is $6,787 below the Washington state average of $156,101. Compared to the national median of $135,740, 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 lawyers in Tacoma spans from $71,500 at the 10th percentile to $263,120 at the 90th percentile — a $191,620 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $77,000, while senior lawyers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $242,000. With a population of 219,346, Tacoma is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Lawyer Salary in Tacoma by Experience
In Tacoma, an entry-level lawyer earns around $77,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $242,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tacoma, WA
| Percentile | Tacoma |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $71,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $93,500 |
| Median (50th) | $149,314 |
| 75th Percentile | $204,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $263,120 |
Lawyer Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Lawyer in Tacoma
Education
Most lawyer positions require a doctoral degree. Tacoma and the surrounding Washington area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, lawyer 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 Lawyer Jobs in Tacoma
Browse open lawyer positions in Tacoma, WA: