Astronomers in Washington
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Washington | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,980 | $132,170 | -21.3% vs US |
| State Rank | #5 of 6 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 40 jobs | 1,560 jobs | 2.6% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Washington
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $70,400 | $33.85 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,460 | $40.13 |
| Median | $103,980 | $49.99 |
| 75th Percentile | $177,260 | $85.22 |
| 90th Percentile | $184,370 | $88.64 |
Related Links
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Astronomers in Washington in 2026?
With a median salary of $103,980 in Washington and a 2023–2024 salary trend of +27.4%, astronomers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can astronomers increase their salary in Washington?
Astronomers in Washington can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: Washington currently ranks #5 out of 6 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Astronomers in Washington?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $174,370 |
| Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) | $171,910 |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $128,450 |
How are Astronomers paid in Washington compared to the national average?
The median salary for Astronomers in Washington is $103,980, which is 21.3% below the national median of $132,170.