Kennewick vs Lake Stevens: Phlebotomist Salary (2026)
Compare phlebotomist salaries between Kennewick, WA and Lake Stevens, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kennewick, WA | Lake Stevens, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $49,779▲ | $48,311 |
| Hourly Rate | $23.93▲ | $23.23 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $41,660▲ | $41,137 |
| 25th Percentile | $41,660 | $42,484▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $51,900▲ | $50,466 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $61,168▲ | $58,902 |
| Total Employed | 120▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Kennewick, WA offers better overall compensation for phlebotomists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lake Stevens.
The salary gap between Kennewick and Lake Stevens is $1,468 (3.04%). Kennewick's median is +5.33% compared to the US national median of $47,261.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kennewick spans $19,508,Lake Stevens spans $17,765. 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 ($49,740 effective) pays 10.58% more than Lake Stevens ($44,982 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 ($49,779/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($61,168)
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $49,740)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Lake Stevens if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, phlebotomist salaries in Kennewick grew 25.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -14.4% growth in Lake Stevens over the same period.
Kennewick, WA
$38,080 (2019) → $47,640 (2025)
Lake Stevens, WA
$54,014 (2024) → $46,235 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kennewick, WA
Lake Stevens, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays phlebotomists more: Kennewick or Lake Stevens?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kennewick and Lake Stevens?
Should I relocate from Kennewick to Lake Stevens as a phlebotomist?
What do entry-level phlebotomists earn in Kennewick vs Lake Stevens?
Related Comparisons
Written by Aisha Patel, MLT
Career Analyst
Aisha has over 10 years of experience in clinical laboratory technology. She specializes in blood collection and processing. She works in a large urban hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.49% 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 Aisha Patel, MLT, a licensed phlebotomist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov