Social Worker Salary in Seattle
2026 compensation data for Social Worker positions in Seattle, WA. Ranges from $49,000 (entry-level) to $107,000 (senior). Median: $71,000.
Median (Mid)
$71,000
$34.13/hr
vs National
+6%
US: $67,000
COL Index
155
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$107,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $49,000 | $56,000 | $63,000 | $26.92/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $61,000 | $71,000 | $83,000 | $34.13/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $79,000 | $92,000 | $107,000 | $44.23/hr |
What Your Salary Is Really Worth in Seattle
A mid-level social worker earning $71,000 in Seattle has the same buying power as $46,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 155).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Social Worker Salaries in Seattle
The median social worker salary in Seattle, WA is $71,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 6% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 155 (national average = 100), Seattle offers a high cost of living that partially offsets the salary premium.
Entry-level social workers in Seattle can expect to earn between $49,000 and $63,000 (about $26.92/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $107,000 ($107K annually, or about $51.44/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Seattle.
Frequently Asked Questions: Social Worker Salary in Seattle
What is the average Social Worker salary in Seattle?+
The average Social Worker salary in Seattle is $71,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $56,000 and senior-level pay reaches $92,000.
How much does an entry-level social worker make in Seattle?+
Entry-level social workers in Seattle earn between $49,000 and $63,000, with a median of $56,000 per year (about $26.92/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Social Worker in Seattle?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Social Worker in Seattle earns roughly $26.92/hour at entry-level, $34.13/hour at mid-level, and $44.23/hour at senior-level.
Is the Social Worker salary in Seattle higher than the US average?+
Yes — Social Worker salaries in Seattle are about 6% higher than the US national median of $67,000.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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