How to Become a Community Health Workers in Washington
Community Health Workers in Washington earn a median salary of $56,460/year, which is 11% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a community health workers takes home approximately $2,538/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a community health workers can afford in Washington
Becoming a community health workers in Washington
Meet education requirements
Community Health Workers positions in Washington typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many community health 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 community health 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 2,440 community health workers. The highest concentrations are in Mount Vernon-Anacortes and Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue.
Community Health Workers salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $62K | $29.94/hr | 60 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $61K | $29.26/hr | 1,080 |
| Bellingham | $60K | $28.84/hr | 80 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $58K | $28.08/hr | 130 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $57K | $27.45/hr | 50 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $57K | $27.34/hr | 90 |
| Longview-Kelso | $55K | $26.24/hr | 40 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $49K | $23.46/hr | 250 |
| Yakima | $49K | $23.36/hr | 150 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $48K | $23.27/hr | 70 |
Community Health Workers salary range in Washington
Community Health Workers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a community health workers make in Washington?▼
The median community health workers salary in Washington is $56,460 per year ($27.14/hr). This is 11% above the national median of $51,030. Salaries range from $42,210 to $80,220.
What are the requirements to become a community health workers in Washington?▼
Community Health Workers positions in Washington typically require Master'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 community health workers afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $56,460, a community health workers in Washington would take home approximately $3,950/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 35.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for community health workers in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for community health workers in Washington are Mount Vernon-Anacortes ($62,280), Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($60,860), Bellingham ($59,980). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for community health workers?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means community health workers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.