How to Become a Public Relations Specialists in Washington
Public Relations Specialists in Washington earn a median salary of $85,500/year, which is 23% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a public relations specialists takes home approximately $4,299/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a public relations specialists can afford in Washington
Becoming a public relations specialists in Washington
Meet education requirements
Public Relations 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 public relations 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 public relations 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 6,650 public relations specialists. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard.
Public Relations Specialists salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $92K | $44.26/hr | 4,410 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $90K | $43.24/hr | 110 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $87K | $41.81/hr | 200 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $78K | $37.55/hr | 600 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $78K | $37.44/hr | 40 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $73K | $35/hr | 60 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $71K | $34.32/hr | 290 |
| Bellingham | $71K | $34.04/hr | 110 |
| Yakima | $70K | $33.7/hr | 80 |
| Walla Walla | $67K | $32.08/hr | 40 |
Public Relations Specialists salary range in Washington
Public Relations Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a public relations specialists make in Washington?▼
The median public relations specialists salary in Washington is $85,500 per year ($41.11/hr). This is 23% above the national median of $69,780. Salaries range from $58,360 to $137,530.
What are the requirements to become a public relations specialists in Washington?▼
Public Relations 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 public relations specialists afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $85,500, a public relations specialists in Washington would take home approximately $5,711/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 24.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for public relations specialists in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for public relations specialists in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($92,060), Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard ($89,940), Kennewick-Richland ($86,960). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for public relations specialists?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means public relations specialists keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.