How to Become a Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in Washington
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers in Washington earn a median salary of $43,590/year, which is 17% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers takes home approximately $1,677/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.
What a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers can afford in Washington
Becoming a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Washington
Meet education requirements
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers positions in Washington typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers 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 veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakerss. 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 4,720 veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Mount Vernon-Anacortes.
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $45K | $21.87/hr | 2,540 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $45K | $21.44/hr | 130 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $43K | $20.62/hr | 70 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $40K | $19.02/hr | 200 |
| Yakima | $39K | $18.63/hr | 180 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $39K | $18.61/hr | 110 |
| Bellingham | $39K | $18.58/hr | 140 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $38K | $18.29/hr | 340 |
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers salary range in Washington
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers make in Washington?▼
The median veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers salary in Washington is $43,590 per year ($20.96/hr). This is 17% above the national median of $37,320. Salaries range from $37,540 to $47,680.
What are the requirements to become a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Washington?▼
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers positions in Washington typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $43,590, a veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Washington would take home approximately $3,089/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 45.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($45,480), Mount Vernon-Anacortes ($44,600), Wenatchee-East Wenatchee ($42,890). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.