How to Become a Social and Human Service Assistants in Washington
Social and Human Service Assistants in Washington earn a median salary of $49,940/year, which is 11% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a social and human service assistants takes home approximately $2,102/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a social and human service assistants can afford in Washington
Becoming a social and human service assistants in Washington
Meet education requirements
Social and Human Service Assistants 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 social and human service 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 social and human service 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 6,850 social and human service assistants. The highest concentrations are in Bellingham and Longview-Kelso.
Social and Human Service Assistants salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bellingham | $53K | $25.62/hr | 180 |
| Longview-Kelso | $53K | $25.49/hr | 70 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $53K | $25.49/hr | 3,810 |
| Walla Walla | $49K | $23.56/hr | 80 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $49K | $23.5/hr | 190 |
| Yakima | $49K | $23.42/hr | 260 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $49K | $23.37/hr | 160 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $47K | $22.72/hr | 120 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $47K | $22.38/hr | 790 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $46K | $22.34/hr | 130 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $45K | $21.65/hr | 70 |
Social and Human Service Assistants salary range in Washington
Social and Human Service Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a social and human service assistants make in Washington?▼
The median social and human service assistants salary in Washington is $49,940 per year ($24.01/hr). This is 11% above the national median of $45,120. Salaries range from $40,460 to $68,890.
What are the requirements to become a social and human service assistants in Washington?▼
Social and Human Service Assistants 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 social and human service assistants afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $49,940, a social and human service assistants in Washington would take home approximately $3,514/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 40.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for social and human service assistants in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for social and human service assistants in Washington are Bellingham ($53,290), Longview-Kelso ($53,010), Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($53,010). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for social and human service assistants?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means social and human service assistants keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.