How to Become a Nurse Practitioners in Washington
Nurse Practitioners in Washington earn a median salary of $140,220/year, which is 9% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a nurse practitioners takes home approximately $7,471/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a nurse practitioners can afford in Washington
Becoming a nurse practitioners in Washington
Meet education requirements
Nurse Practitioners positions in Washington typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many nurse practitioners 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 nurse practitionerss. 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 4,790 nurse practitioners. The highest concentrations are in Bellingham and Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard.
Nurse Practitioners salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bellingham | $150K | $71.9/hr | 90 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $144K | $69.35/hr | 120 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $143K | $68.72/hr | 2,850 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $142K | $68.34/hr | 150 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $138K | $66.35/hr | 60 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $137K | $66.04/hr | 100 |
| Longview-Kelso | $136K | $65.34/hr | 60 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $136K | $65.32/hr | 140 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $131K | $63.02/hr | 460 |
| Walla Walla | $131K | $62.98/hr | 30 |
| Yakima | $128K | $61.72/hr | 130 |
Nurse Practitioners salary range in Washington
Nurse Practitioners careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a nurse practitioners make in Washington?▼
The median nurse practitioners salary in Washington is $140,220 per year ($67.41/hr). This is 9% above the national median of $129,210. Salaries range from $107,700 to $177,770.
What are the requirements to become a nurse practitioners in Washington?▼
Nurse Practitioners positions in Washington typically require Master'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 nurse practitioners afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $140,220, a nurse practitioners in Washington would take home approximately $8,883/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 15.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for nurse practitioners in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for nurse practitioners in Washington are Bellingham ($149,560), Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard ($144,240), Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($142,940). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for nurse practitioners?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means nurse practitioners keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.