Kennewick vs Walla Walla: Athletic Trainer Salary (2026)
Compare athletic trainer 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 | $69,699▲ | $66,689 |
| Hourly Rate | $33.51▲ | $32.06 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $51,415 | $53,629▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $63,397▲ | $59,680 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,146▲ | $78,161 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $101,110▲ | $90,633 |
| Total Employed | 19▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Kennewick, WA offers better overall compensation for athletic trainers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Walla Walla.
The salary gap between Kennewick and Walla Walla is $3,010 (4.51%). Kennewick's median is +6.55% compared to the US national median of $65,415.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kennewick spans $49,695,Walla Walla spans $37,004. 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, Kennewick ($64,897 effective) pays 4.51% more than Walla Walla ($62,094 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kennewick if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($69,699/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($101,110)
- ✓Larger job market (19 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $64,897)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Walla Walla if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, athletic trainer salaries in Kennewick grew -2.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -2.3% growth in Walla Walla over the same period.
Kennewick, WA
$68,193 (2024) → $66,615 (2025)
Walla Walla, WA
$65,247 (2024) → $63,738 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kennewick, WA
Walla Walla, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays athletic trainers more: Kennewick or Walla Walla?
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Written by Jordan Lee, MS, ATC
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in athletic training. She specializes in injury prevention and rehabilitation. She has worked at several high schools and collegiate athletic programs.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.63% 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, MS, ATC, a licensed athletic trainer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov