Data Engineer Salary in Seattle (2026)

Data Engineer salaries in Seattle range from $81,000 to $200,027, a 104% spread that reflects significant variation based on experience level, specialization, and company size. The median of $113,909 sits below the midpoint, suggesting more positions cluster toward the entry-to-mid-level end of the range.

Seattle's cost of living index of 96/100 makes it one of the more expensive locations for tech professionals. While the $113,909 median is competitive, housing and daily expenses consume a larger share of income compared to lower-cost cities.

The hiring landscape for data engineer in Seattle is anchored by employers like Amazon, Microsoft, and Starbucks, along with 2 other notable employers. Larger employers in this market typically offer compensation at the upper end of the range, often supplemented with equity, signing bonuses, and comprehensive benefits.

Demand for data engineer in Seattle centers around expertise in Python, SQL, Kubernetes, plus 2 other core competencies. Candidates with strong proficiency across these areas tend to command offers closer to the $200,027 ceiling, and have natural transition paths into roles like Data Scientist or Database Administrator.