Cost Estimators Salary in Seattle, WA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA

Median annual salary $86,300 +12% vs national
Median hourly $41.49
10th percentile $59,000
90th percentile $144,060
Employed locally 4,490
National median $77,070

Compare Cost Estimators salary & buying power

Type a city below to see how Seattle, WA stacks up on salary and cost of living.

Full tool →
Cost Estimators
in
Seattle, WA
vs

    In Seattle, WA, the typical cost estimator earns a median annual salary of $86,300 and a median hourly wage of $41.49. This figure is notably higher than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $77,070 annually. When compared to local economic indicators, the median income for cost estimators falls below the area's median household income of $112,594. Despite earning more than their national counterparts, Seattle's cost estimators still earn less on average than the typical local household.

    For entry-level cost estimators in Seattle, earnings often start around the 10th percentile mark at approximately $59,000 annually. As they gain experience and expertise, these professionals can see significant salary increases, with those at the 75th percentile earning about $109,320 per year. Highly experienced workers may reach the 90th percentile, where salaries approach $144,060 annually. The disparity in earnings is driven by factors such as accumulated industry knowledge, specialized skills, and the complexity of projects managed. As cost estimators progress through their careers, they often take on greater responsibilities and more sophisticated tasks, which are reflected in their increased compensation.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $59,000
    25th
    $68,990
    50th (median)
    $86,300
    75th
    $109,320
    90th
    $144,060

    Seattle economic context

    Unemployment rate 4.30% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $112,594 2023 • Census ACS
    Cost Estimators salary vs area income 77% Median Cost Estimators salary is 23% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Cost Estimators make per hour in Seattle?

    The median hourly wage for Cost Estimators in Seattle, WA is $41.49, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $73.18 or more per hour.

    Is Seattle above or below average for Cost Estimators salaries?

    The median Cost Estimators salary in Seattle, WA is 12% above the national median of $77,070. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Cost Estimators in Seattle?

    Entry-level Cost Estimators (10th percentile) earn around $59,000 per year in Seattle, WA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $68,990.