How to Become a Nursing Assistants in Washington
Nursing Assistants in Washington earn a median salary of $48,260/year, which is 22% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a nursing assistants takes home approximately $1,989/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a nursing assistants can afford in Washington
Becoming a nursing assistants in Washington
Meet education requirements
Nursing 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 nursing 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 nursing 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 28,080 nursing assistants. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Bellingham.
Nursing Assistants salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $51K | $24.37/hr | 14,910 |
| Bellingham | $48K | $23.01/hr | 720 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $47K | $22.8/hr | 900 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $47K | $22.7/hr | 510 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $47K | $22.66/hr | 450 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $47K | $22.55/hr | 900 |
| Walla Walla | $47K | $22.53/hr | 290 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $47K | $22.42/hr | 1,010 |
| Yakima | $46K | $22.28/hr | 1,130 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $46K | $22.2/hr | 2,680 |
| Longview-Kelso | $46K | $22.13/hr | 440 |
Nursing Assistants salary range in Washington
Nursing Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a nursing assistants make in Washington?▼
The median nursing assistants salary in Washington is $48,260 per year ($23.2/hr). This is 22% above the national median of $39,530. Salaries range from $40,170 to $60,220.
What are the requirements to become a nursing assistants in Washington?▼
Nursing 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 nursing assistants afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $48,260, a nursing assistants in Washington would take home approximately $3,401/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 41.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for nursing assistants in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for nursing assistants in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($50,690), Bellingham ($47,860), Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard ($47,420). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for nursing assistants?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means nursing assistants keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.