Average Commercial Pilots Salary in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA
Commercial Pilots in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA metropolitan area command an impressive average annual salary of $177,580. This figure significantly surpasses the national average of $144,150, indicating a premium for aviation professionals in this region. The elevated pay is likely influenced by the area's robust aerospace industry and the specialized skill set required for this demanding profession.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $177,580 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 46.9% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $266,370.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 660 Commercial Pilots and a Location Quotient of 0.94, the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue area exhibits a job market that closely mirrors the national concentration of this profession. While not exceptionally overrepresented, the steady presence of this workforce suggests consistent demand and a stable employment landscape for skilled pilots within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Commercial Pilots in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA earns+23.2%above the national average.
$85.4
$3,415
$14,798
Commercial Pilots Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that Commercial Pilot salaries in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing demand for air travel, advancements in aviation technology, and the ongoing need for experienced flight crews likely contribute to upward salary pressures in this specialized field.
Commercial Pilots Salary Distribution in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA
The career trajectory for Commercial Pilots in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA, typically involves significant salary progression based on experience and qualifications. Entry-level positions will naturally command lower salaries, while seasoned pilots with extensive flight hours, advanced ratings, and captaincy experience can expect to earn substantially more, often reaching into the higher percentiles of the salary range. The gap between entry-level and senior roles highlights the value placed on accumulated expertise and responsibility.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $62,740 | $30.2 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $133,185 | $64 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $133,180 | $64 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $221,975 | $106.7 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $266,370 | $128.1 |
Detailed Commercial Pilots Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$177,580
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$177,580
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $177,580 for Commercial Pilots in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA, aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the purchasing power of a pilot's salary in this region is equivalent to the national standard, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without the financial strain often associated with higher-than-average living costs.
Job Market Context
660
Total Jobs
0.316
Per 1K Jobs
0.94
Location Quotient
Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA has 0.94x the national average concentration of Commercial Pilots jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
A Location Quotient of 0.94 for Commercial Pilots in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA, indicates that the concentration of these professionals is just slightly below the national average. This suggests a competitive yet accessible job market; while not oversaturated, there are sufficient opportunities to support the existing workforce, implying a balanced supply and demand dynamic for skilled pilots in the area.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Commercial Pilots
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Western Washington nonmetropolitan area Commercial Pilots Salary | $107,530↓ 39% | 42 mi |
| Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area Commercial Pilots Salary | $78,170↓ 56% | 42 mi |
Comparing salaries near Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Commercial Pilots make in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA?
The median annual salary for a Commercial Pilots in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA is $177,580. This typically ranges from $62,740 for entry-level positions to $266,370 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA is 23.2% higher than the national median of $144,150.
Is Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA a lucrative place for Commercial Pilots?
Yes, it is a lucrative place for Commercial Pilots.Commercial Pilots in this region earn significantly above the national average salary. Furthermore, the local cost of living is on par with the national average, enhancing the real value of their earnings.
Is Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA a good place to live for Commercial Pilots?
The Cost of Living Index in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Western Washington nonmetropolitan area ($107,530) and Eastern Washington nonmetropolitan area.
How does the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue pilot salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Commercial Pilots in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA is $177,580, which is considerably higher than the national average of $144,150.
What is the job market like for Commercial Pilots in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA?
The job market is stable, with a workforce size of 660 and a concentration (Location Quotient) very close to the national average, suggesting consistent demand.
Does the cost of living in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA affect pilot salaries?
No, the cost of living in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA is at the national average (index of 100), meaning the higher pilot salaries offer equivalent purchasing power compared to the rest of the country.
What factors contribute to the higher pilot salaries in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA?
The elevated pay is likely driven by the strong presence of the aerospace industry in the region and the specialized, high-demand skills required for commercial aviation.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 660 employees in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA area with a job density of 0.316 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Commercial Pilots • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA