Average Computer and Information Research Scientists Salary in Washington
Computer and Information Research Scientists in Washington earn a remarkable average annual salary of $204,290, significantly outpacing the national average of $167,850. This substantial premium is driven by Washington's robust technology sector, high demand for specialized research talent, and the concentration of leading tech companies that necessitate top-tier compensation to attract and retain experts.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $204,290 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 42.9% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $306,435.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 2,590 professionals and a Location Quotient of 2.93, Washington demonstrates a strong and concentrated demand for Computer and Information Research Scientists. This high concentration indicates that the state is a significant hub for this specialized field, suggesting a robust job market with ample opportunities for skilled individuals.
Salary Overview
The average Computer and Information Research Scientists in Washington earns+21.7%above the national average.
$98.2
$3,929
$17,024
Computer and Information Research Scientists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Computer and Information Research Scientists in Washington have experienced consistent growth over the past four years. This trend is typically fueled by the ever-evolving nature of technology, increasing demand for advanced research and development, and the competitive landscape among tech-forward states like Washington.
Computer and Information Research Scientists Salary Distribution in Washington
The salary trajectory for Computer and Information Research Scientists in Washington escalates significantly with experience. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower percentiles, while seasoned professionals with extensive expertise and a proven track record can command salaries in the upper percentiles, potentially exceeding $250,000. These percentile gaps clearly signify the substantial career progression and earning potential within this field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior / AssociateEntry level. Focus on learning core skills & codebase. | 10% (Entry) | $102,480 | $49.3 |
| Engineer IProficient contributor. Handles tasks independently. | 25% (Junior) | $153,218 | $73.7 |
| Senior EngineerSystem design, complex problem solving, mentoring. | 50% (Median) | $221,990 | $106.7 |
| Lead / StaffTechnical strategy, architecture, cross-team impact. | 75% (Senior) | $255,363 | $122.8 |
| Principal / ArchitectIndustry expert. Driving technical vision & innovation. | 90% (Expert) | $306,435 | $147.3 |
Detailed Computer and Information Research Scientists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$204,290
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$177,489
Adjusted for COL (115.1)
The average annual salary of $204,290 in Washington presents a strong nominal income. However, with a Cost of Living Index of 115.1, which is 15.1% higher than the national average, the purchasing power of this salary is somewhat tempered. While still offering a high standard of living, individuals should factor in the increased expenses for housing, goods, and services when considering relocation.
Job Market Context
2,590
Total Jobs
0.731
Per 1K Jobs
2.93
Location Quotient
Washington has 2.9x the national concentration of Computer and Information Research Scientists jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
A Location Quotient of 2.93 signifies that Computer and Information Research Scientists are nearly three times more concentrated in Washington than the national average. This indicates a highly specialized and competitive market, where employers actively seek out this talent, and professionals benefit from a rich ecosystem of related industries and research institutions.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Computer and Information Research Scientists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA Computer and Information Research Scientists Salary | $214,540↑ 5% | 42 mi |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard, WA Computer and Information Research Scientists Salary | $111,630↓ 45% | 58 mi |
Comparing salaries near Washington
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Computer and Information Research Scientists make in Washington?
The median annual salary for a Computer and Information Research Scientists in Washington is $204,290. This typically ranges from $102,480 for entry-level positions to $306,435 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Washington is 21.7% higher than the national median of $167,850.
Is Washington a lucrative place for Computer and Information Research Scientists?
Yes, Washington is a highly lucrative state for Computer and Information Research Scientists.The average salary of $204,290 significantly exceeds the national average, and the high concentration of these professionals (LQ 2.93) points to strong employer demand and competitive compensation.
Is Washington a good place to live for Computer and Information Research Scientists?
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 ($214,540) and Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard, WA.
How does Washington's salary compare to the national average?
Computer and Information Research Scientists in Washington earn an average of $204,290 annually, which is substantially higher than the national average of $167,850.
What is the job market like for this role in Washington?
The job market is robust, with a high concentration of these professionals (LQ 2.93) and a significant number of jobs per 1,000 workers (0.731), indicating strong demand.
How does the cost of living affect the salary?
Washington's Cost of Living Index is 115.1, meaning it is 15.1% more expensive than the national average. While the high salary offers good purchasing power, the increased cost of living should be considered.
What is the total number of Computer and Information Research Scientists in Washington?
There are approximately 2,590 Computer and Information Research Scientists employed in Washington state.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 2,590 employees in the Washington area with a job density of 0.731 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Computer and Information Research Scientists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Washington