Photographer Salary in Tacoma, Washington
The median photographer salary in Tacoma, WA is $44,220 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median and 4.3% below the Washington state average.
Photographer Pay in Tacoma: What to Expect (2026)
Tacoma offers a median photographer salary of $44,220, which is $2,010 below the Washington state average of $46,230. Compared to the national median of $40,200, 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 photographers in Tacoma spans from $26,400 at the 10th percentile to $90,200 at the 90th percentile — a $63,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $28,600, while senior photographers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $82,500. With a population of 219,346, Tacoma is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Photographer Salary in Tacoma by Experience
In Tacoma, an entry-level photographer earns around $28,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $82,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tacoma, WA
| Percentile | Tacoma |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $26,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $33,000 |
| Median (50th) | $44,220 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $90,200 |
Photographer Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Photographer in Tacoma
Education
Most photographer positions require a high school diploma. Tacoma and the surrounding Washington area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, photographer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Tacoma may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Photographer Jobs in Tacoma
Browse open photographer positions in Tacoma, WA: