MediaOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Communications Director Salary in Seattle
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$255,364/yr
Typical range: $227,839 – $278,461
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Communications Director salary by experience level in Seattle
Communications Director Salary Progression in Seattle
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $124,034 | $10,336 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $153,219 | $12,768 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $172,675 | $14,390 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $196,995 | $16,416 | +59% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $255,364 | $21,280 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $310,815 | $25,901 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $324,677 | $27,056 | +162% |
Current Salary
$255,364
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $123/hr
Next Level Target
$310,815
Principal · 14
+$55Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
44/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Communications Director salary in Seattle, WA?
Staff / Lead Communications Directors in Seattle, WA earn approximately $255K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Communications Director make per hour in Seattle, WA?
Based on $255K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $123/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Communications Director in Seattle, WA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Communications Director in Seattle, WA earns $228K–$278K/yr.