How to Become a Accountants and Auditors in Washington
Accountants and Auditors in Washington earn a median salary of $96,180/year, which is 18% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a accountants and auditors takes home approximately $4,925/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a accountants and auditors can afford in Washington
Becoming a accountants and auditors in Washington
Meet education requirements
Accountants and Auditors positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many accountants and auditors positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for accountants and auditorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 37,400 accountants and auditors. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard.
Accountants and Auditors salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $99K | $47.78/hr | 24,880 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $91K | $43.56/hr | 580 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $90K | $43.34/hr | 1,090 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $90K | $43.32/hr | 370 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $89K | $42.73/hr | 990 |
| Walla Walla | $88K | $42.13/hr | 190 |
| Longview-Kelso | $84K | $40.3/hr | 290 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $83K | $40.09/hr | 410 |
| Bellingham | $83K | $39.94/hr | 850 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $82K | $39.63/hr | 2,500 |
| Yakima | $80K | $38.48/hr | 670 |
Accountants and Auditors salary range in Washington
Accountants and Auditors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a accountants and auditors make in Washington?▼
The median accountants and auditors salary in Washington is $96,180 per year ($46.24/hr). This is 18% above the national median of $81,680. Salaries range from $64,440 to $143,210.
What are the requirements to become a accountants and auditors in Washington?▼
Accountants and Auditors positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a accountants and auditors afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $96,180, a accountants and auditors in Washington would take home approximately $6,337/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 22.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for accountants and auditors in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for accountants and auditors in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($99,380), Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard ($90,610), Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater ($90,140). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for accountants and auditors?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means accountants and auditors keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.