Seattle vs University Place: Civil Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare civil engineer salaries between Seattle, WA and University Place, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Seattle, WA | University Place, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $119,543▲ | $108,486 |
| Hourly Rate | $57.47▲ | $52.16 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,300▲ | $73,588 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,928▲ | $84,937 |
| 75th Percentile | $138,037▲ | $134,753 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $166,014 | $168,153▲ |
| Total Employed | 7,680▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Seattle, WA offers better overall compensation for civil engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to University Place.
The salary gap between Seattle and University Place is $11,057 (10.19%). Seattle's median is +15.51% compared to the US national median of $103,492.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Seattle spans $81,714,University Place spans $94,565. University Place has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced civil engineers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Seattle ($107,568 effective) pays 6.49% more than University Place ($101,011 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Seattle if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($119,543/year)
- ✓Larger job market (7,680 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,568)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose University Place if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($168,153)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, civil engineer salaries in Seattle grew 27.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -12.7% growth in University Place over the same period.
Seattle, WA
$91,440 (2019) → $116,480 (2025)
University Place, WA
$121,123 (2024) → $105,706 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Seattle, WA
University Place, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays civil engineers more: Seattle or University Place?
What is the hourly rate difference between Seattle and University Place?
Should I relocate from Seattle to University Place as a civil engineer?
What do entry-level civil engineers earn in Seattle vs University Place?
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Written by Jordan Chen, P.E.
Career Analyst
Jordan Chen has 10 years of experience in structural engineering. He works primarily in urban infrastructure projects.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.63% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Chen, P.E., a licensed civil engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov