Purchasing Agent Salary in Washington
Based on 15K+ workers in Washington
Median Annual Salary (WA)
$85,130
$40.93/hr
vs National Average
$76,869
+10.7% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$58K – $138K
15K employed in Washington
The median Purchasing Agent salary in Washington is $85,130 per year, which is approximately $41 per hour. This figure indicates that the average earnings for this profession in the state are notably higher than the national average, by about 10.7%. With 15,400 individuals employed in this role, it represents a significant segment of the procurement workforce.
Several factors influence the Purchasing Agent salary in Washington. Experience level is a primary driver, with more seasoned professionals commanding higher salaries. The specific industry and the size of the company also play a role, as larger organizations or those in high-demand sectors may offer more competitive compensation packages. Geographic location within Washington can also lead to salary variations.
Salary Distribution — Purchasing Agent in Washington
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $58,260 |
| 25th percentile | $68,820 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $85,130 |
| 75th percentile | $108,240 |
| 90th percentile | $137,980 |
Top-Paying Industries for Purchasing Agent (U.S.)
Which industries pay Purchasing Agents the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Purchasing Agents in Washington tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | $99,240 | 4K |
| Finance and Insurance | $98,000 | 9K |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $95,870 | 64K |
| Information | $93,980 | 7K |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $88,830 | 40K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Purchasing Agent in Washington vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Washington) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $85,130 |
| 2026 (projected) | $87,684 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Washington Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $85,130 | $76,869 |
| 2026 (projected) | $87,684 | $79,175 |
Purchasing Agent Salary by Experience Level in Washington
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $68,820 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $85,130 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $108,240 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $137,980 |
Purchasing Agent Salary in Other States
Related Purchasing Agent Salaries in Washington
How other high-demand occupations in Washington compare to Purchasing Agent ($85,130 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Purchasing Agent | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Logistician in WA | $107,250 | +26.0% | $51.56/hr |
| Market Research Analyst in WA | $95,120 | +11.7% | $45.73/hr |
| Public Relations Specialist in WA | $87,470 | +2.7% | $42.05/hr |
| Writer and Author in WA | $85,700 | +0.7% | $41.20/hr |
| Real Estate Broker in WA | $82,790 | -2.7% | $39.80/hr |
| Training and Development Specialist in WA | $81,860 | -3.8% | $39.36/hr |
| Real Estate Sales Agent in WA | $79,130 | -7.0% | $38.04/hr |
| Editor in WA | $77,850 | -8.6% | $37.43/hr |
| Human Resources Specialist in WA | $84,550 | -0.7% | $40.65/hr |
| Dietitian and Nutritionist in WA | $84,220 | -1.1% | $40.49/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in WA | $84,050 | -1.3% | $40.41/hr |
| Licensed Practical Nurse in WA | $83,150 | -2.3% | $39.98/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Purchasing Agent typically earn in Washington?
- The median Purchasing Agent salary in Washington is $85,130 annually, or about $41 hourly. The salary range for these professionals typically falls between $58,260 and $137,980 per year.
What is the difference between the Purchasing Agent salary in Washington and the national average?
- Purchasing Agents in Washington earn approximately 10.7% more than the national average. This means that while the national median might be lower, Washington offers a higher earning potential for this role.
Is the salary for Purchasing Agents in Washington competitive?
- Yes, the Purchasing Agent salary in Washington is quite competitive. With a median of $85,130 and a range extending up to $137,980, it significantly surpasses the national average, suggesting strong compensation for the role.
What is the typical salary range for a Purchasing Agent in Washington?
- The salary range for a Purchasing Agent in Washington is from $58,260 to $137,980 annually. This wide range reflects differences in experience, industry, and company size affecting individual earnings.