How to Become a Tour and Travel Guides in Washington
Tour and Travel Guides in Washington earn a median salary of $48,830/year, which is 33% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a tour and travel guides takes home approximately $2,028/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a tour and travel guides can afford in Washington
Becoming a tour and travel guides in Washington
Meet education requirements
Tour and Travel Guides positions in Washington typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many tour and travel guides 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 tour and travel guidess. 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 1,370 tour and travel guides. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Wenatchee-East Wenatchee.
Tour and Travel Guides salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $52K | $25.03/hr | 920 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $45K | $21.57/hr | 50 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $44K | $21.19/hr | 40 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $43K | $20.75/hr | 50 |
| Bellingham | $42K | $20.23/hr | 30 |
Tour and Travel Guides salary range in Washington
Tour and Travel Guides careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a tour and travel guides make in Washington?▼
The median tour and travel guides salary in Washington is $48,830 per year ($23.48/hr). This is 33% above the national median of $36,660. Salaries range from $37,760 to $76,350.
What are the requirements to become a tour and travel guides in Washington?▼
Tour and Travel Guides positions in Washington typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a tour and travel guides afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $48,830, a tour and travel guides in Washington would take home approximately $3,440/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 41% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for tour and travel guides in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for tour and travel guides in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($52,060), Wenatchee-East Wenatchee ($44,870), Spokane-Spokane Valley ($44,080). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for tour and travel guides?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means tour and travel guides keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.