Des Moines vs Seattle: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Des Moines, WA and Seattle, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, WA | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,777 | $103,929▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.45 | $49.96▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,247▲ | $68,212 |
| 25th Percentile | $91,382▲ | $82,188 |
| 75th Percentile | $127,171 | $127,881▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $156,204▲ | $133,284 |
| Total Employed | 7 | 14,560▲ |
Verdict
Seattle, WA offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Des Moines.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Seattle is $3,152 (3.13%). Seattle's median is +60.89% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $78,957,Seattle spans $65,072. Des Moines 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, Des Moines ($93,833 effective) pays 0.34% more than Seattle ($93,518 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($156,204)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $93,833)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Seattle if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,929/year)
- ✓Larger job market (14,560 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Des Moines grew 14.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 47.9% growth in Seattle over the same period.
Des Moines, WA
$87,254 (2024) → $99,799 (2025)
Seattle, WA
$69,600 (2019) → $102,920 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, WA
Seattle, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Des Moines or Seattle?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Seattle?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Seattle as a elementary school teacher?
What do entry-level elementary school teachers earn in Des Moines vs Seattle?
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Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% 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 Jordan Lee, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov