How to Become a Veterinarians in Washington
Veterinarians in Washington earn a median salary of $155,060/year, which is 24% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a veterinarians takes home approximately $8,316/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a veterinarians can afford in Washington
Becoming a veterinarians in Washington
Meet education requirements
Veterinarians positions in Washington typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many veterinarians 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 veterinarianss. 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 1,940 veterinarians. The highest concentrations are in Mount Vernon-Anacortes and Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue.
Veterinarians salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $162K | $77.83/hr | 60 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $159K | $76.5/hr | 1,020 |
| Yakima | $157K | $75.55/hr | 80 |
| Bellingham | $147K | $70.77/hr | 60 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $136K | $65.22/hr | 80 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $134K | $64.22/hr | 40 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $131K | $63.12/hr | 150 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $121K | $58.29/hr | 80 |
Veterinarians salary range in Washington
Veterinarians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a veterinarians make in Washington?▼
The median veterinarians salary in Washington is $155,060 per year ($74.55/hr). This is 24% above the national median of $125,510. Salaries range from $99,060 to $215,660.
What are the requirements to become a veterinarians in Washington?▼
Veterinarians positions in Washington typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a veterinarians afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $155,060, a veterinarians in Washington would take home approximately $9,728/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 14.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for veterinarians in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for veterinarians in Washington are Mount Vernon-Anacortes ($161,880), Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($159,130), Yakima ($157,140). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for veterinarians?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means veterinarians keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.