How to Become a Medical Assistants in Washington
Medical Assistants in Washington earn a median salary of $55,120/year, which is 25% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a medical assistants takes home approximately $2,449/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a medical assistants can afford in Washington
Becoming a medical assistants in Washington
Meet education requirements
Medical Assistants positions in Washington typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many medical assistants 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 medical assistantss. 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 18,430 medical assistants. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Longview-Kelso.
Medical Assistants salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $59K | $28.29/hr | 9,950 |
| Longview-Kelso | $53K | $25.55/hr | 190 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $50K | $24.18/hr | 620 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $49K | $23.78/hr | 590 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $49K | $23.74/hr | 200 |
| Bellingham | $48K | $23.29/hr | 420 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $48K | $23.07/hr | 750 |
| Yakima | $48K | $23.03/hr | 640 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $48K | $22.99/hr | 360 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $47K | $22.69/hr | 1,900 |
| Walla Walla | $47K | $22.44/hr | 130 |
Medical Assistants salary range in Washington
Medical Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical assistants make in Washington?▼
The median medical assistants salary in Washington is $55,120 per year ($26.5/hr). This is 25% above the national median of $44,200. Salaries range from $43,810 to $69,320.
What are the requirements to become a medical assistants in Washington?▼
Medical Assistants positions in Washington typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a medical assistants afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $55,120, a medical assistants in Washington would take home approximately $3,861/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical assistants in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical assistants in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($58,850), Longview-Kelso ($53,140), Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater ($50,300). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for medical assistants?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means medical assistants keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.