Surgeon Salary in Washington
The median surgeon salary in Washington is $303,581 per year, which is 19.0% above the national median of $255,110.
Surgeon Salary Overview in Washington (2026)
Washington ranks #7 out of 50 states for surgeon compensation. This places Washington in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for surgeons seeking high pay. At $303,581 per year, surgeons in Washington earn $48,471 more than the national median of $255,110.
It's worth noting that Washington's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $303,581 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $263,983.
The salary spread in Washington is significant: surgeons at the 10th percentile earn $142,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $499,800 — a $357,000 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 $397,972.
Nationally, surgeon employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for surgeons across the country.
Surgeon Salary in Washington by Experience
In Washington, an entry-level surgeon earns around $154,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $476,000 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Washington
| Percentile | WA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $142,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $208,250 |
| Median (50th) | $303,581 |
| 75th Percentile | $416,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $499,800 |
Surgeon Salary by City in Washington
The largest employment areas for surgeons in Washington include Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Surgeon in Washington
Education
Most surgeon positions require a doctoral degree. Washington has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Washington
Nationally, surgeon employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Washington's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Surgeons who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $172,419 over your career trajectory.
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