How to Become a Urban and Regional Planners in Washington
Urban and Regional Planners in Washington earn a median salary of $98,190/year, which is 17% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a urban and regional planners takes home approximately $5,043/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a urban and regional planners can afford in Washington
Becoming a urban and regional planners in Washington
Meet education requirements
Urban and Regional Planners 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 urban and regional planners 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 urban and regional plannerss. 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 2,840 urban and regional planners. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard.
Urban and Regional Planners salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $103K | $49.71/hr | 1,390 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $100K | $47.85/hr | 80 |
| Bellingham | $97K | $46.75/hr | 90 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $93K | $44.64/hr | 640 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $91K | $43.56/hr | 60 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $91K | $43.56/hr | 40 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $84K | $40.47/hr | 140 |
| Yakima | $84K | $40.47/hr | 60 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $83K | $40/hr | 30 |
Urban and Regional Planners salary range in Washington
Urban and Regional Planners careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a urban and regional planners make in Washington?▼
The median urban and regional planners salary in Washington is $98,190 per year ($47.21/hr). This is 17% above the national median of $83,720. Salaries range from $74,090 to $123,320.
What are the requirements to become a urban and regional planners in Washington?▼
Urban and Regional Planners 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 urban and regional planners afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $98,190, a urban and regional planners in Washington would take home approximately $6,455/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 21.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for urban and regional planners in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for urban and regional planners in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($103,410), Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard ($99,520), Bellingham ($97,240). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for urban and regional planners?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means urban and regional planners keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.