How to Become a Home Health and Personal Care Aides in Washington
Home Health and Personal Care Aides in Washington earn a median salary of $46,140/year, which is 32% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a home health and personal care aides takes home approximately $1,847/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a home health and personal care aides can afford in Washington
Becoming a home health and personal care aides in Washington
Meet education requirements
Home Health and Personal Care Aides positions in Washington typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many home health and personal care aides 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 home health and personal care aidess. 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 100,360 home health and personal care aides. The highest concentrations are in Longview-Kelso and Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue.
Home Health and Personal Care Aides salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Longview-Kelso | $47K | $22.64/hr | 1,630 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $47K | $22.45/hr | 53,140 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $46K | $22.28/hr | 1,090 |
| Walla Walla | $46K | $22.19/hr | 1,180 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $46K | $22.15/hr | 4,500 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $46K | $22.13/hr | 9,980 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $46K | $21.97/hr | 2,090 |
| Bellingham | $45K | $21.65/hr | 2,430 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $45K | $21.54/hr | 1,250 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $44K | $21.37/hr | 3,120 |
| Yakima | $44K | $21.29/hr | 4,890 |
Home Health and Personal Care Aides salary range in Washington
Home Health and Personal Care Aides careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a home health and personal care aides make in Washington?▼
The median home health and personal care aides salary in Washington is $46,140 per year ($22.18/hr). This is 32% above the national median of $34,900. Salaries range from $38,650 to $53,710.
What are the requirements to become a home health and personal care aides in Washington?▼
Home Health and Personal Care Aides positions in Washington typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a home health and personal care aides afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $46,140, a home health and personal care aides in Washington would take home approximately $3,259/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 43.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for home health and personal care aides in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for home health and personal care aides in Washington are Longview-Kelso ($47,100), Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($46,690), Wenatchee-East Wenatchee ($46,350). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for home health and personal care aides?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means home health and personal care aides keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.