Research Scientist Salary in Seattle, WA
Research Scientist salary data for Seattle, WA — adjusted for local cost of living. Entry-level to senior pay ranges, take-home pay calculator, and local job market insights.
Research Scientist Salary in Seattle, WA — 2026
The median Research Scientist salary in Seattle, WA is $150,480 per year ($12,540/month, $72/hr). This reflects the local cost of living index of 152, which is 52% above the national average.
Research Scientist Take-Home Pay in Seattle
Tax Breakdown (Median Salary)
| Gross Annual | $150,480 |
| Federal Tax | -$25,362 |
| State Tax (0.0%) | -$0 |
| FICA (SS + Medicare) | -$11,512 |
| Annual Take-Home | $113,606 |
| Monthly Take-Home | $9,467 |
Living Cost Comparison
Research Scientist Requirements
Key Skills
Seattle Job Market Overview
Seattle, Washington has a population of 737,015 and an unemployment rate of 3.0%. The top industries are Technology, Healthcare, Aerospace. The local job growth rate is 2.8%, and the average commute time is 28 minutes.
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Research Scientist Salary in Nearby Washington Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Research Scientist salary in Seattle, WA?
How much does a Research Scientist take home in Seattle after taxes?
Is Seattle a good city for Research Scientists?
What skills are needed for a Research Scientist in Seattle?
How does Research Scientist salary in Seattle compare to the national average?
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Research Scientist salary in Seattle, WA?
The median Research Scientist salary in Seattle, WA is $150,480 per year as of 2026. This is adjusted for the local cost of living index of 152. Entry-level Research Scientists earn around $86,640, while senior-level professionals can earn $196,080 or more.
How much does a Research Scientist take home in Seattle after taxes?
A Research Scientist earning the median salary of $150,480 in Seattle, WA takes home approximately $113,606 per year ($9,467/month) after federal, state, and local taxes. The effective tax rate is 24.5%.
Is Seattle a good city for Research Scientists?
Seattle, WA has a cost of living index of 152 (above national average). Research Scientists here earn above the city median. The local unemployment rate is 3.0% and top industries include Technology, Healthcare, Aerospace.
What skills are needed for a Research Scientist in Seattle?
Key skills for Research Scientists include Research Design, Data Analysis, Grant Writing, Statistical Methods, Lab Management. Typical education requirement is Doctoral Degree (PhD). Valuable certifications include PhD in Field, Postdoctoral Training.
How does Research Scientist salary in Seattle compare to the national average?
The national median Research Scientist salary is $99,000. In Seattle, the adjusted salary is $150,480, which is 52.0% higher than the national average, reflecting the local cost of living.