Urban Planner Salary in Tacoma, Washington
The median urban planner salary in Tacoma, WA is $87,494 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median and 4.3% below the Washington state average.
Urban Planner Pay in Tacoma: What to Expect (2026)
Tacoma offers a median urban planner salary of $87,494, which is $3,977 below the Washington state average of $91,471. Compared to the national median of $79,540, 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 urban planners in Tacoma spans from $55,000 at the 10th percentile to $134,200 at the 90th percentile — a $79,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $57,200, while senior urban planners with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $129,800. With a population of 219,346, Tacoma is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Urban Planner Salary in Tacoma by Experience
In Tacoma, an entry-level urban planner earns around $57,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $129,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tacoma, WA
| Percentile | Tacoma |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $55,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $69,300 |
| Median (50th) | $87,494 |
| 75th Percentile | $110,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $134,200 |
Urban Planner Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Urban Planner in Tacoma
Education
Most urban planner positions require a master's degree. Tacoma and the surrounding Washington area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, urban planner 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 Urban Planner Jobs in Tacoma
Browse open urban planner positions in Tacoma, WA: