Average Commercial Pilots Salary in Washington
Commercial Pilots in Washington State command an impressive average annual salary of $155,450, significantly surpassing the national average of $144,150. This higher compensation is often dictated by the state's robust aerospace industry, stringent operational demands, and the specialized skill set required for aviation careers within the region.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $155,450 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 58.2% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $233,175.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 1,060 Commercial Pilots, Washington presents a substantial, albeit not overwhelmingly concentrated, pool of talent. The Location Quotient of 0.89 suggests a presence that is nearly on par with the national average, indicating a stable and established demand for these professionals within the state's aviation sector.
Salary Overview
The average Commercial Pilots in Washington earns+7.8%above the national average.
$74.7
$2,989
$12,954
Commercial Pilots Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data isn't provided, it's reasonable to assume that salaries for Commercial Pilots in Washington have experienced consistent 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 skilled pilots likely contribute to upward salary pressure.
Commercial Pilots Salary Distribution in Washington
Salary progression for Commercial Pilots in Washington typically scales significantly with experience. Entry-level positions might start at a lower percentile, but as pilots accumulate flight hours, certifications, and specialized ratings, their earning potential increases substantially, reaching higher percentiles for senior captains and instructors.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $57,280 | $27.5 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $116,588 | $56.1 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $123,530 | $59.4 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $194,313 | $93.4 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $233,175 | $112.1 |
Detailed Commercial Pilots Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$155,450
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$135,056
Adjusted for COL (115.1)
The average annual salary of $155,450 in Washington State is tempered by a Cost of Living Index of 115.1, which is 15.1% higher than the national average. While the nominal salary is strong, individuals relocating should anticipate that their purchasing power will be somewhat reduced due to the elevated cost of goods and services in the state.
Job Market Context
1,060
Total Jobs
0.298
Per 1K Jobs
0.89
Location Quotient
Washington has 0.89x 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 0.89 indicates that Commercial Pilots are slightly less concentrated in Washington compared to the national average. This suggests that while the market is well-established, there isn't an oversupply of pilots relative to other professions, potentially creating a competitive environment for employers seeking top talent.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Commercial Pilots
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA Commercial Pilots Salary | $177,580↑ 14% | 42 mi |
Comparing salaries near Washington
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Commercial Pilots make in Washington?
The median annual salary for a Commercial Pilots in Washington is $155,450. This typically ranges from $57,280 for entry-level positions to $233,175 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Washington is 7.8% higher than the national median of $144,150.
Is Washington a lucrative place for Commercial Pilots?
Yes, Washington offers lucrative opportunities for Commercial Pilots.The average salary of $155,450 significantly exceeds the national average, and the state's substantial aviation presence supports consistent demand for skilled professionals.
Is Washington a good place to live for Commercial Pilots?
The Cost of Living Index in Washington is 115.1. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Washington?
Some top paying nearby cities include Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA ($177,580) and others.
How does the number of Commercial Pilots in Washington compare nationally?
Washington has a local workforce of 1,060 Commercial Pilots, which is a considerable number, though the Location Quotient of 0.89 indicates a slightly lower concentration relative to the national average.
What is the job outlook for Commercial Pilots in Washington?
The job outlook appears stable, with a jobs-per-1,000-workers rate of 0.298 suggesting consistent employment opportunities within the state's aviation industry.
Does the high cost of living in Washington affect pilot salaries?
Yes, while the average salary is high at $155,450, the Cost of Living Index of 115.1 means that the real value of that salary is somewhat diminished compared to areas with a lower cost of living.
Are there more or fewer Commercial Pilots in Washington than the national average?
There are slightly fewer Commercial Pilots per capita in Washington compared to the national average, as indicated by the Location Quotient of 0.89.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,060 employees in the Washington area with a job density of 0.298 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 Washington