How to Become a Insurance Underwriters in Washington
Insurance Underwriters in Washington earn a median salary of $95,310/year, which is 19% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a insurance underwriters takes home approximately $4,874/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a insurance underwriters can afford in Washington
Becoming a insurance underwriters in Washington
Meet education requirements
Insurance Underwriters 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 insurance underwriters 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 insurance underwriterss. 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 2,000 insurance underwriters. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Spokane-Spokane Valley.
Insurance Underwriters salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $99K | $47.36/hr | 1,330 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $81K | $39.06/hr | 270 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $73K | $34.92/hr | 110 |
Insurance Underwriters salary range in Washington
Insurance Underwriters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a insurance underwriters make in Washington?▼
The median insurance underwriters salary in Washington is $95,310 per year ($45.82/hr). This is 19% above the national median of $79,880. Salaries range from $62,600 to $170,130.
What are the requirements to become a insurance underwriters in Washington?▼
Insurance Underwriters 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 insurance underwriters afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $95,310, a insurance underwriters in Washington would take home approximately $6,286/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 22.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for insurance underwriters in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for insurance underwriters in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($98,500), Spokane-Spokane Valley ($81,240), Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater ($72,630). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for insurance underwriters?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means insurance underwriters keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.