Research Scientist Salary in Tacoma, WA
Research Scientist salary data for Tacoma, 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 Tacoma, WA — 2026
The median Research Scientist salary in Tacoma, WA is $106,920 per year ($8,910/month, $51/hr). This reflects the local cost of living index of 108, which is 8% above the national average.
Research Scientist Take-Home Pay in Tacoma
Tax Breakdown (Median Salary)
| Gross Annual | $106,920 |
| Federal Tax | -$15,136 |
| State Tax (0.0%) | -$0 |
| FICA (SS + Medicare) | -$8,179 |
| Annual Take-Home | $83,604 |
| Monthly Take-Home | $6,967 |
Living Cost Comparison
Research Scientist Requirements
Key Skills
Tacoma Job Market Overview
Tacoma, Washington has a population of 219,346 and an unemployment rate of 3.5%. The top industries are Military, Healthcare, Logistics. The local job growth rate is 2.0%, and the average commute time is 28 minutes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Research Scientist salary in Tacoma, WA?
How much does a Research Scientist take home in Tacoma after taxes?
Is Tacoma a good city for Research Scientists?
What skills are needed for a Research Scientist in Tacoma?
How does Research Scientist salary in Tacoma compare to the national average?
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Research Scientist salary in Tacoma, WA?
The median Research Scientist salary in Tacoma, WA is $106,920 per year as of 2026. This is adjusted for the local cost of living index of 108. Entry-level Research Scientists earn around $61,560, while senior-level professionals can earn $139,320 or more.
How much does a Research Scientist take home in Tacoma after taxes?
A Research Scientist earning the median salary of $106,920 in Tacoma, WA takes home approximately $83,604 per year ($6,967/month) after federal, state, and local taxes. The effective tax rate is 21.8%.
Is Tacoma a good city for Research Scientists?
Tacoma, WA has a cost of living index of 108 (above national average). Research Scientists here earn above the city median. The local unemployment rate is 3.5% and top industries include Military, Healthcare, Logistics.
What skills are needed for a Research Scientist in Tacoma?
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 Tacoma compare to the national average?
The national median Research Scientist salary is $99,000. In Tacoma, the adjusted salary is $106,920, which is 8.0% higher than the national average, reflecting the local cost of living.