Weatherman / Meteorologist Salary in Seattle

The average annual salary for a broadcast meteorologist in the Seattle market is approximately $95,000, but the range is wide:

• Entry-level / small market: $50K–$70K
• Mid-career (5–10 yr), major station (KOMO, KING, KIRO, Q13): $85K–$130K
• Chief Meteorologist / 15+ yr: $130K–$200K+

Factors Influencing Pay

• Station size & ownership (network O&O vs. affiliate vs. independent)
• Role: Weekend vs. weeknight chief
• Credentials: AMS CBM / NWA Seal, master's degree
• Digital duties: Streaming, social, app content often added
• Union: SAG-AFTRA contracts at network O&Os

Non-Broadcast Roles

• NWS / NOAA: $60K–$110K (GS scale)
• Private sector (weather tech, energy, aviation, insurance): $80K–$150K+
• Academia: $70K–$140K (tenure-track)

Seattle's high cost of living (~50% above national avg) pushes compensation up vs. smaller markets. Check Glassdoor, Indeed, TVJobs for current postings.