How to Become a Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Washington
Paralegals and Legal Assistants in Washington earn a median salary of $78,010/year, which is 28% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a paralegals and legal assistants takes home approximately $3,860/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a paralegals and legal assistants can afford in Washington
Becoming a paralegals and legal assistants in Washington
Meet education requirements
Paralegals and Legal Assistants positions in Washington typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many paralegals and legal 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 paralegals and legal 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 9,070 paralegals and legal assistants. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Wenatchee-East Wenatchee.
Paralegals and Legal Assistants salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $85K | $40.84/hr | 6,420 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $72K | $34.84/hr | 60 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $69K | $33.2/hr | 480 |
| Longview-Kelso | $63K | $30.43/hr | 40 |
| Bellingham | $62K | $30.04/hr | 130 |
| Yakima | $62K | $29.64/hr | 170 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $62K | $29.6/hr | 400 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $61K | $29.44/hr | 230 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $59K | $28.26/hr | 100 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $59K | $28.25/hr | 160 |
| Walla Walla | $57K | $27.45/hr | 50 |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants salary range in Washington
Paralegals and Legal Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a paralegals and legal assistants make in Washington?▼
The median paralegals and legal assistants salary in Washington is $78,010 per year ($37.5/hr). This is 28% above the national median of $61,010. Salaries range from $50,500 to $115,120.
What are the requirements to become a paralegals and legal assistants in Washington?▼
Paralegals and Legal Assistants positions in Washington typically require Associate'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 paralegals and legal assistants afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $78,010, a paralegals and legal assistants in Washington would take home approximately $5,272/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 26.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for paralegals and legal assistants in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for paralegals and legal assistants in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($84,950), Wenatchee-East Wenatchee ($72,460), Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater ($69,060). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for paralegals and legal assistants?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means paralegals and legal assistants keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.