How to Become a Cost Estimators in Washington
Cost Estimators in Washington earn a median salary of $82,900/year, which is 8% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a cost estimators takes home approximately $4,147/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a cost estimators can afford in Washington
Becoming a cost estimators in Washington
Meet education requirements
Cost Estimators 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 cost estimators 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 cost estimatorss. 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 7,320 cost estimators. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Mount Vernon-Anacortes.
Cost Estimators salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $86K | $41.49/hr | 4,490 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $82K | $39.46/hr | 110 |
| Bellingham | $81K | $38.94/hr | 210 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $80K | $38.64/hr | 300 |
| Longview-Kelso | $80K | $38.32/hr | 90 |
| Yakima | $78K | $37.66/hr | 140 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $78K | $37.5/hr | 250 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $77K | $37.21/hr | 170 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $75K | $36.12/hr | 530 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $75K | $35.98/hr | 90 |
| Walla Walla | $71K | $34.31/hr | 50 |
Cost Estimators salary range in Washington
Cost Estimators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cost estimators make in Washington?▼
The median cost estimators salary in Washington is $82,900 per year ($39.86/hr). This is 8% above the national median of $77,070. Salaries range from $56,990 to $136,530.
What are the requirements to become a cost estimators in Washington?▼
Cost Estimators 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 cost estimators afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $82,900, a cost estimators in Washington would take home approximately $5,559/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 25.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for cost estimators in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for cost estimators in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($86,300), Mount Vernon-Anacortes ($82,070), Bellingham ($80,990). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for cost estimators?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means cost estimators keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.