How to Become a Software Developers in Washington
Software Developers in Washington earn a median salary of $166,910/year, which is 25% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a software developers takes home approximately $8,991/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a software developers can afford in Washington
Becoming a software developers in Washington
Meet education requirements
Software Developers 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 software developers 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 software developerss. 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 91,470 software developers. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard.
Software Developers salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $169K | $81.42/hr | 72,730 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $139K | $66.86/hr | 620 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $132K | $63.54/hr | 610 |
| Bellingham | $131K | $62.79/hr | 630 |
| Longview-Kelso | $127K | $60.96/hr | 140 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $124K | $59.49/hr | 150 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $122K | $58.87/hr | 1,970 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $122K | $58.43/hr | 1,760 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $118K | $56.75/hr | 230 |
| Yakima | $111K | $53.52/hr | 220 |
| Walla Walla | $106K | $51.12/hr | 90 |
Software Developers salary range in Washington
Software Developers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a software developers make in Washington?▼
The median software developers salary in Washington is $166,910 per year ($80.24/hr). This is 25% above the national median of $133,080. Salaries range from $102,630 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a software developers in Washington?▼
Software Developers 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 software developers afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $166,910, a software developers in Washington would take home approximately $10,403/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 13.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for software developers in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for software developers in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($169,340), Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard ($139,060), Kennewick-Richland ($132,160). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for software developers?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means software developers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.