Zoologist Salary in Tacoma, Washington
The median zoologist salary in Tacoma, WA is $75,053 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median and 4.3% below the Washington state average.
Zoologist Pay in Tacoma: What to Expect (2026)
Tacoma offers a median zoologist salary of $75,053, which is $3,412 below the Washington state average of $78,465. Compared to the national median of $68,230, 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 zoologists in Tacoma spans from $46,200 at the 10th percentile to $123,200 at the 90th percentile — a $77,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $49,500, while senior zoologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $115,500. With a population of 219,346, Tacoma is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Zoologist Salary in Tacoma by Experience
In Tacoma, an entry-level zoologist earns around $49,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $115,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 110% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Tacoma, WA
| Percentile | Tacoma |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $46,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $59,400 |
| Median (50th) | $75,053 |
| 75th Percentile | $99,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $123,200 |
Zoologist Salary in Other Washington Cities
How to Become a Zoologist in Tacoma
Education
Most zoologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Tacoma and the surrounding Washington area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Tacoma may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Zoologist Jobs in Tacoma
Browse open zoologist positions in Tacoma, WA: