Tacoma vs Tukwila: Flight Attendant Salary (2026)
Compare flight attendant salaries between Tacoma, WA and Tukwila, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Tacoma, WA | Tukwila, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $74,947▲ | $64,057 |
| Hourly Rate | $36.03▲ | $30.79 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $43,469▲ | $38,787 |
| 25th Percentile | $59,926▲ | $52,687 |
| 75th Percentile | $95,932▲ | $81,994 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $116,168▲ | $99,289 |
| Total Employed | 56▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Tacoma, WA offers better overall compensation for flight attendants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Tukwila.
The salary gap between Tacoma and Tukwila is $10,890 (17.00%). Tacoma's median is +16.15% compared to the US national median of $64,527.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Tacoma spans $72,699,Tukwila spans $60,502. Tacoma 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, Tacoma ($69,783 effective) pays 17.00% more than Tukwila ($59,643 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Tacoma if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($74,947/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($116,168)
- ✓Larger job market (56 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $69,783)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Tukwila if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, flight attendant salaries in Tacoma grew -9.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -15.2% growth in Tukwila over the same period.
Tacoma, WA
$81,583 (2024) → $73,847 (2025)
Tukwila, WA
$74,454 (2024) → $63,117 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Tacoma, WA
Tukwila, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
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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