How to Become a Dental Hygienists in Washington
Dental Hygienists in Washington earn a median salary of $125,370/year, which is 33% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a dental hygienists takes home approximately $6,625/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a dental hygienists can afford in Washington
Becoming a dental hygienists in Washington
Meet education requirements
Dental Hygienists positions in Washington typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dental hygienists 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 dental hygienistss. 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 5,140 dental hygienists. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater.
Dental Hygienists salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $132K | $63.41/hr | 2,700 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $123K | $59.01/hr | 220 |
| Bellingham | $120K | $57.71/hr | 160 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $117K | $56.13/hr | 100 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $116K | $55.66/hr | 190 |
| Yakima | $108K | $51.86/hr | 180 |
| Longview-Kelso | $107K | $51.5/hr | 90 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $107K | $51.49/hr | 240 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $105K | $50.43/hr | 380 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $104K | $50/hr | 80 |
| Walla Walla | $104K | $49.9/hr | 50 |
Dental Hygienists salary range in Washington
Dental Hygienists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental hygienists make in Washington?▼
The median dental hygienists salary in Washington is $125,370 per year ($60.27/hr). This is 33% above the national median of $94,260. Salaries range from $100,800 to $159,470.
What are the requirements to become a dental hygienists in Washington?▼
Dental Hygienists positions in Washington typically require Associate'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 dental hygienists afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $125,370, a dental hygienists in Washington would take home approximately $8,037/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 17.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dental hygienists in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dental hygienists in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($131,890), Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater ($122,740), Bellingham ($120,030). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for dental hygienists?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means dental hygienists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.