How to Become a Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in Washington
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in Washington earn a median salary of $83,930/year, which is 29% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors takes home approximately $4,207/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors can afford in Washington
Becoming a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Washington
Meet education requirements
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors 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 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors 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 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisorss. 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 5,910 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors. The highest concentrations are in Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard and Yakima.
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $109K | $52.59/hr | 140 |
| Yakima | $98K | $47.28/hr | 210 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $91K | $43.76/hr | 240 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $88K | $42.53/hr | 90 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $87K | $41.6/hr | 200 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $86K | $41.58/hr | 3,050 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $86K | $41.34/hr | 90 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $77K | $37.13/hr | 490 |
| Longview-Kelso | $77K | $37.03/hr | 90 |
| Bellingham | $72K | $34.85/hr | 200 |
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary range in Washington
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors make in Washington?▼
The median educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors salary in Washington is $83,930 per year ($40.35/hr). This is 29% above the national median of $65,140. Salaries range from $55,830 to $127,830.
What are the requirements to become a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Washington?▼
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors 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 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $83,930, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Washington would take home approximately $5,619/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 25.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Washington are Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard ($109,390), Yakima ($98,330), Kennewick-Richland ($91,020). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.