Public Defender Salary in Tacoma, WA
How much does a public defender make in Tacoma? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Tacoma's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how public defender salaries break down across different pay periods in Tacoma.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $103,164 | $162,680 | $228,149 |
| Monthly | $8,597 | $13,557 | $19,012 |
| Biweekly | $3,968 | $6,257 | $8,775 |
| Weekly | $1,984 | $3,128 | $4,387 |
| Hourly | $50 | $78 | $110 |
Tacoma vs National Average
How Tacoma's public defender salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Tacoma
About Public Defender
Overview
Defend individuals accused of crimes who cannot afford private attorneys.
Education
Juris Doctor (JD) and Bar license required
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +13% over the next decade
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Public Defender Salary in Tacoma, WA — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a public defender in Tacoma, WA is $162,680 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 131. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Tacoma's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level public defender professionals in Tacoma can expect to earn around $103,164 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level public defenders earning approximately $228,149 per year. This represents a 121% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Tacoma's cost of living index of 131 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a higher cost-of-living city, salaries in Tacoma are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $125,270, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a public defender's salary in Tacoma typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,900 per month, housing represents about 14.0% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Public Defenders are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 13% over the next decade. In Tacoma, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.