Kennewick vs Walla Walla: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Kennewick, WA and Walla Walla, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kennewick, WA | Walla Walla, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,364 | $103,989▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.73 | $50.00▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,031▲ | $62,608 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,380▲ | $79,037 |
| 75th Percentile | $112,785▲ | $106,302 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $117,117▲ | $108,018 |
| Total Employed | 1,410▲ | 220 |
Verdict
Kennewick and Walla Walla are closely matched on overall elementary school teacher compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Kennewick and Walla Walla is $2,625 (2.59%). Walla Walla's median is +60.98% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kennewick spans $50,086,Walla Walla spans $45,410. Kennewick 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, Walla Walla ($105,552 effective) pays 4.21% more than Kennewick ($101,284 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kennewick if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($117,117)
- ✓Larger job market (1,410 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Walla Walla if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,989/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,552)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Kennewick grew 53.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 50.8% growth in Walla Walla over the same period.
Kennewick, WA
$65,340 (2019) → $100,380 (2025)
Walla Walla, WA
$68,270 (2019) → $102,980 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kennewick, WA
Walla Walla, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Kennewick or Walla Walla?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kennewick and Walla Walla?
Should I relocate from Kennewick to Walla Walla as a elementary school teacher?
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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