Cashier Salary in Seattle, WA
Cashiers in Seattle, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $21.23 per hour, which translates to about $849.20 per week, $3,679.87 per month, and $44,158.40 per year.
The demand for Cashiers in Seattle is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy market with positive employment opportunities for those entering this field.
How Much Does a Cashier Make in Seattle, WA?
The salary of a Cashier in Seattle varies depending on experience level and employer, but the following table outlines typical earnings across different stages of a Cashier's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.76 | $830.40 | $3,584.00 | $43,008.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.23 | $849.20 | $3,679.87 | $44,158.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.12 | $1,084.80 | $4,693.33 | $56,409.60 |
Do Cashiers in Seattle Earn Tips?
Cashiers generally do not earn tips as their role primarily involves handling transactions rather than direct service that typically generates gratuities. Their earnings are usually based solely on their hourly wage or salary.
Cashier Salary in Seattle vs. National Average
Nationally, Cashiers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which amounts to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Cashiers in Seattle earn significantly more at about $21.23 per hour and $44,158.40 annually. This reflects Seattle's higher cost of living and competitive job market for retail and service positions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Seattle for Cashiers
When exploring nearby neighborhoods, Cashier salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown: $23.12 per hour
- Capitol Hill: $22.50 per hour
Cashiers working in Downtown Seattle can expect the highest pay rates nearby, followed closely by those in Capitol Hill.
What Influences a Cashier’s Salary in Seattle?
Several factors can affect how much a Cashier earns in Seattle:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced Cashiers or those with longer tenure in the retail industry often command higher wages.
- Skills and Efficiency: Strong customer service abilities and fast, accurate handling of transactions can lead to raises or promotions.
- Type of Employer: Larger retailers, grocery chains, or specialty stores might offer better pay compared to smaller independent shops.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may pay premium wages or include shift differentials.
- Certifications: Holding required permits like a Food Handler's Permit or Alcohol Server Permit when applicable can influence employability and wages.
How To Become a Cashier in Seattle
Starting a career as a Cashier in Seattle can be accessible but taking certain steps may improve job prospects and earning potential.
- Customer Service Excellence Program: Offered by Seattle Central College, this program enhances skills essential for Cashier roles.
- Retail Management Certificate: Provided by North Seattle College, this certificate helps develop skills in retail operations and management.
- Food Handler's Permit: Required for Cashiers handling food items to ensure knowledge of proper food safety practices.
- Alcohol Server Permit: Necessary for Cashiers selling alcoholic beverages, certifying understanding of alcohol laws and responsible service.
Top Employers Hiring Cashiers in Seattle
Key companies currently employing Cashiers in Seattle include:
- Starbucks
- PCC Community Markets
- Safeway
Establishments That Cashiers in Seattle Work At
Cashiers can typically be found working at a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Retail Stores: These often provide moderate wages but more regular hours.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: May offer slightly higher pay due to fast-paced environments and higher customer volume.
- Grocery Stores and Supermarkets: Larger employers in this category frequently provide better pay and benefits.
- Specialty Shops and Boutiques: These may pay more for experienced Cashiers and offer more specialized service roles.
The choice of establishment strongly influences wages based on scale, customer base, and complexity of transactions.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Seattle for Cashiers
If you are considering other related roles in hospitality, here are a few similar careers you might explore:
These include Barista, Server, and Backwaiter positions, which involve customer interaction and service tasks closely related to Cashier responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Cashiers in Seattle
Cashiers in Seattle should be familiar with important labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliant and fair employment.
- Visit the Washington State Department of Licensing website for information on professional licenses and regulatory requirements.
- For workplace safety and labor law resources, check the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website.