Ellensburg vs Vancouver: Flight Attendant Salary (2026)
Compare flight attendant salaries between Ellensburg, WA and Vancouver, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ellensburg, WA | Vancouver, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,111▲ | $62,798 |
| Hourly Rate | $31.79▲ | $30.19 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $38,344▲ | $36,423 |
| 25th Percentile | $54,356▲ | $51,309 |
| 75th Percentile | $84,621▲ | $80,381 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $102,471▲ | $97,337 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 37▲ |
Verdict
Ellensburg, WA offers better overall compensation for flight attendants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Vancouver.
The salary gap between Ellensburg and Vancouver is $3,313 (5.28%). Ellensburg's median is +2.45% compared to the US national median of $64,527.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ellensburg spans $64,127,Vancouver spans $60,914. Ellensburg has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Ellensburg ($61,556 effective) pays 5.28% more than Vancouver ($58,471 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ellensburg if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($66,111/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($102,471)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $61,556)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Vancouver if…
- ✓Larger job market (37 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, flight attendant salaries in Ellensburg grew -15.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -24.4% growth in Vancouver over the same period.
Ellensburg, WA
$76,841 (2024) → $65,140 (2025)
Vancouver, WA
$81,879 (2024) → $61,876 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ellensburg, WA
Vancouver, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays flight attendants more: Ellensburg or Vancouver?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ellensburg and Vancouver?
Should I relocate from Ellensburg to Vancouver as a flight attendant?
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Written by Emily Johnson, AFA-CWA
Career Analyst
Emily Johnson has 10 years of experience as a flight attendant. She specializes in passenger safety and service. She has worked for major airlines in the United States.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 1.49% 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 Emily Johnson, AFA-CWA, a licensed flight attendant with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov