Zoologist Salary in Seattle, WA: $100,980 (2026)

Zoologist Pay in Seattle: What to Expect (2026)

Seattle offers a median zoologist salary of $100,980, which is $22,515 above the Washington state average of $78,465. Compared to the national median of $68,230, Seattle pays above average for this role.

However, Seattle's cost of living index is 148%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $100,980 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $68,230. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Seattle should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.

The salary range for zoologists in Seattle spans from $62,160 at the 10th percentile to $165,760 at the 90th percentile — a $103,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $66,600, while senior zoologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $155,400. As a major metro area with a population of 737,015, Seattle typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.

Zoologist Salary in Seattle by Experience

In Seattle, an entry-level zoologist earns around $66,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $155,400 per year. The local cost of living index is 148% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$66,600

+$21,600 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$103,600

+$33,600 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$155,400

+$50,400 vs national

Percentile	Seattle	WA State	National
10th Percentile	$62,160	$48,300	$42,000
25th Percentile	$79,920	$62,100	$54,000
Median (50th)	$100,980	$78,465	$68,230
75th Percentile	$133,200	$103,500	$90,000
90th Percentile	$165,760	$128,800	$112,000

Percentile

Seattle

10th Percentile

$62,160

25th Percentile

$79,920

Median (50th)

$100,980

75th Percentile

$133,200

90th Percentile

$165,760

How to Become a Zoologist in Seattle

Education

Most zoologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Seattle and the surrounding Washington area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Wildlife BiologyField ResearchData AnalysisGISScientific WritingConservation

Job Outlook

Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Seattle may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Zoologist Salary in Seattle

How much does a Zoologist make in Seattle, WA? ▼

The median zoologist salary in Seattle, Washington is $100,980 per year, which is 48.0% above the national median of $68,230. Salaries range from $62,160 (10th percentile) to $165,760 (90th percentile).

How much does a Zoologist make per hour in Seattle? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $100,980, a zoologist in Seattle earns approximately $49 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Seattle compare to the Washington state average for zoologist pay? ▼

Seattle's median zoologist salary of $100,980 is 28.7% above the Washington state average of $78,465. The local cost of living index is 148% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Seattle, WA? ▼

Seattle has a cost of living index of 148% compared to the national average. This means a zoologist salary of $100,980 in Seattle has less purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a zoologist in Seattle? ▼

Most zoologist positions in Seattle require a bachelor's degree. Key skills include Wildlife Biology, Field Research, Data Analysis, GIS. The job market is projected to grow 3% nationally over the next decade.

Zoologist Salary in Seattle, Washington