Engineering Washington (WA) Rank #7 of 50

Marine Engineer Salary in Washington

The median marine engineer salary in Washington is $111,446 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $96,910.

Median Salary
$111,446
vs National
+$14,536
State Rank
#7 of 50
Cost of Living
115%

Marine Engineer Salary Overview in Washington (2026)

Washington ranks #7 out of 50 states for marine engineer compensation. This places Washington in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for marine engineers seeking high pay. At $111,446 per year, marine engineers in Washington earn $14,536 more than the national median of $96,910.

It's worth noting that Washington's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $111,446 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $96,910.

The salary spread in Washington is significant: marine engineers at the 10th percentile earn $66,700, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $174,800 — a $108,100 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 $147,303.

Nationally, marine engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for marine engineers across the country.

Marine Engineer Salary in Washington by Experience

In Washington, an entry-level marine engineer earns around $71,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $166,750 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$71,300
+$9,300 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$112,700
+$14,700 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$166,750
+$21,750 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Washington

Percentile WA Salary
10th Percentile $66,700
25th Percentile $87,400
Median (50th) $111,446
75th Percentile $142,600
90th Percentile $174,800

Marine Engineer Salary by City in Washington

The largest employment areas for marine 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 Marine Engineer in Washington

Education

Most marine engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Washington has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Naval ArchitectureMarine SystemsCADPropulsionMaritime LawProject Management

Job Outlook in Washington

Nationally, marine engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Washington's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Marine Engineer Salary in Washington

How much does a Marine Engineer make in Washington? ▼
The median marine engineer salary in Washington is $111,446 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $96,910. Salaries range from $66,700 (10th percentile) to $174,800 (90th percentile).
How much does a Marine Engineer make per hour in Washington? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $111,446, a marine engineer in Washington earns approximately $54 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Washington a good state for marine engineers? ▼
Washington ranks #7 out of 50 states for marine engineer pay. The cost of living index is 115% of the national average. Entry-level marine engineers earn $71,300, while senior professionals earn $166,750.
How does Washington compare to other states for marine engineer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for marine engineers is Hawaii at $164,747. Washington's median of $111,446 ranks #7 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New York ($118,230) and New Jersey ($111,446).
What is the entry-level marine engineer salary in Washington? ▼
An entry-level marine engineer in Washington earns approximately $71,300 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $112,700. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $166,750.
What city in Washington pays marine engineers the most? ▼
Bellevue is the highest paying city in Washington for marine engineers, with a median salary of $147,303. Other cities include Seattle and Spokane.