Seattle vs Tacoma: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Seattle, WA and Tacoma, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Seattle, WA | Tacoma, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $172,918▲ | $170,034 |
| Hourly Rate | $83.14▲ | $81.75 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $104,779▲ | $98,619 |
| 25th Percentile | $136,099▲ | $130,276 |
| 75th Percentile | $213,231 | $217,644▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $289,266▲ | $263,553 |
| Total Employed | 1,330▲ | 56 |
Verdict
Seattle, WA offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Tacoma.
The salary gap between Seattle and Tacoma is $2,884 (1.70%). Seattle's median is +25.91% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Seattle spans $184,487,Tacoma spans $164,934. Seattle has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Tacoma ($158,318 effective) pays 1.75% more than Seattle ($155,596 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Seattle if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($172,918/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($289,266)
- ✓Larger job market (1,330 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Tacoma if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $158,318)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Seattle grew 69.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 4.3% growth in Tacoma over the same period.
Seattle, WA
$96,460 (2019) → $163,810 (2025)
Tacoma, WA
$154,463 (2024) → $161,078 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Seattle, WA
Tacoma, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinarians more: Seattle or Tacoma?
What is the hourly rate difference between Seattle and Tacoma?
Should I relocate from Seattle to Tacoma as a veterinarian?
What do entry-level veterinarians earn in Seattle vs Tacoma?
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Written by Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM
Career Analyst
Dr. Alice Nguyen has 10 years of experience in veterinary medicine. She specializes in small animal surgery. She currently works at a suburban veterinary clinic.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.56% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM, a licensed veterinarian with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov