How to Become a Lawyers in Washington
Lawyers in Washington earn a median salary of $151,950/year, which is 1% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a lawyers takes home approximately $8,139/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a lawyers can afford in Washington
Becoming a lawyers in Washington
Meet education requirements
Lawyers positions in Washington typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in Washington. 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 lawyerss. 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 13,140 lawyers. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard.
Lawyers salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $163K | $78.21/hr | 9,440 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $134K | $64.65/hr | 190 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $130K | $62.66/hr | 260 |
| Walla Walla | $129K | $62.25/hr | 40 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $128K | $61.73/hr | 620 |
| Yakima | $125K | $60.14/hr | 220 |
| Bellingham | $124K | $59.71/hr | 220 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $124K | $59.51/hr | 80 |
| Longview-Kelso | $111K | $53.27/hr | 50 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $111K | $53.19/hr | 820 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $101K | $48.72/hr | 80 |
Lawyers salary range in Washington
Lawyers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a lawyers make in Washington?▼
The median lawyers salary in Washington is $151,950 per year ($73.05/hr). This is 1% above the national median of $151,160. Salaries range from $86,840 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a lawyers in Washington?▼
Lawyers positions in Washington typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a lawyers afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $151,950, a lawyers in Washington would take home approximately $9,551/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 14.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for lawyers in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for lawyers in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($162,680), Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard ($134,470), Kennewick-Richland ($130,330). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for lawyers?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means lawyers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.