How to Become a Child, Family, and School Social Workers in Washington
Child, Family, and School Social Workers in Washington earn a median salary of $72,290/year, which is 23% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a child, family, and school social workers takes home approximately $3,525/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a child, family, and school social workers can afford in Washington
Becoming a child, family, and school social workers in Washington
Meet education requirements
Child, Family, and School Social Workers 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 child, family, and school social workers 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 child, family, and school social workerss. 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 10,570 child, family, and school social workers. The highest concentrations are in Longview-Kelso and Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater.
Child, Family, and School Social Workers salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Longview-Kelso | $77K | $36.86/hr | 120 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $76K | $36.77/hr | 590 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $76K | $36.35/hr | 110 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $73K | $35.07/hr | 5,560 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $72K | $34.77/hr | 280 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $71K | $33.94/hr | 190 |
| Walla Walla | $70K | $33.89/hr | 90 |
| Yakima | $70K | $33.84/hr | 420 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $70K | $33.65/hr | 350 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $66K | $31.85/hr | 1,020 |
| Bellingham | $62K | $29.95/hr | 350 |
Child, Family, and School Social Workers salary range in Washington
Child, Family, and School Social Workers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a child, family, and school social workers make in Washington?▼
The median child, family, and school social workers salary in Washington is $72,290 per year ($34.75/hr). This is 23% above the national median of $58,570. Salaries range from $48,980 to $97,250.
What are the requirements to become a child, family, and school social workers in Washington?▼
Child, Family, and School Social Workers 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 child, family, and school social workers afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $72,290, a child, family, and school social workers in Washington would take home approximately $4,937/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for child, family, and school social workers in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for child, family, and school social workers in Washington are Longview-Kelso ($76,660), Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater ($76,470), Wenatchee-East Wenatchee ($75,600). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for child, family, and school social workers?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means child, family, and school social workers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.