How to Become a Medical Records Specialists in Washington
Medical Records Specialists in Washington earn a median salary of $62,250/year, which is 24% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a medical records specialists takes home approximately $2,926/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a medical records specialists can afford in Washington
Becoming a medical records specialists in Washington
Meet education requirements
Medical Records Specialists 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 medical records specialists 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 records specialistss. 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 5,280 medical records specialists. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Mount Vernon-Anacortes.
Medical Records Specialists salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $68K | $32.59/hr | 3,210 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $61K | $29.3/hr | 120 |
| Longview-Kelso | $58K | $28.07/hr | 40 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $55K | $26.27/hr | 120 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $54K | $25.96/hr | 410 |
| Walla Walla | $53K | $25.45/hr | 30 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $51K | $24.42/hr | 130 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $50K | $24.15/hr | 110 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $50K | $24/hr | 130 |
| Yakima | $48K | $23.28/hr | 180 |
| Bellingham | $45K | $21.86/hr | 70 |
Medical Records Specialists salary range in Washington
Medical Records Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a medical records specialists make in Washington?▼
The median medical records specialists salary in Washington is $62,250 per year ($29.93/hr). This is 24% above the national median of $50,250. Salaries range from $44,100 to $96,740.
What are the requirements to become a medical records specialists in Washington?▼
Medical Records Specialists 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 medical records specialists afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $62,250, a medical records specialists in Washington would take home approximately $4,338/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 32.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for medical records specialists in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for medical records specialists in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($67,790), Mount Vernon-Anacortes ($60,940), Longview-Kelso ($58,390). 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 records specialists?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means medical records specialists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.