How Much Nurses Make in Washington | Salary Guide

If you're exploring the possibility of a nursing career in Washington, understanding the salary expectations across different nursing specialties is crucial. This knowledge will guide you in choosing the right educational path to align with your career goals and financial expectations.

^{This article is an extension of our comprehensive nursing salary guide by state. All salary data has been aggregated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).}

Registered Nursing Salary in Washington

RNs in Washington earn an average annual salary of $101,230, which is 13.72% higher than the national average of $89,010 or $42.80 per hour.

RN salaries in Washington may vary, however, based on numerous factors including years of experience, employer, education, and more. Here's a breakdown of low (10th percentile), average (50th percentile), and high (90th percentile) salary expectations. The following salary data was gathered from a total of 64,920  RNs.

Nurse Practitioner Salary in Washington

NPs in Washington earn an average annual salary of $134,200, which is 7.63% higher than the national average of $124,680 or $59.94 per hour.

NP Salary in Washington may vary, however, based on numerous factors including NP specialization, years of experience, level of education, and more. The following salary data was gathered from a total of 4,150  NPs.

Certified Nurse Midwife Salary in Washington

CNMs in Washington earn an average annual salary of $134,770, which is 10.07% higher than the national average of $122,450 or $58.87 per hour.

CNM Salary in Washington may vary, however, based on numerous factors including years of experience, level of education, employer, and more. The following salary data was gathered from a total of 150  CNMs.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Salary in Washington

CRNAs in Washington earn an average annual salary of $214,800 , which is 4.39% higher than the national average of $205,770 or $98.93 per hour.

CRNA Salary in Washington may vary, however, based on numerous factors including years of experience, level of education, and more. The following salary data was gathered from a total of 430 CRNAs.

LPN/LVN Salary in Washington

LPN/LVNs in Washington earn an average annual salary of $68,370  which is 25.18% than the national average of $54,620 or $26.26 per hour.

LPN/LVN Salary in Washington may vary, however, based on numerous factors including years of experience, level of education, employer, and more. The following salary data was gathered from a total of 6,430 LPN/LVNs.

What's It Like to Be a Nurse in Washington?

Washington offers nurses innovative healthcare practices, competitive compensation, and a strong focus on public health. Here's a breakdown:

• Innovative Healthcare Environment: Washington state, particularly in the Seattle area, is known for its innovative healthcare environment. Nurses have opportunities to work in cutting-edge medical facilities and participate in groundbreaking healthcare research and practices.
• Diverse Patient Population: Due to its cultural diversity, particularly in urban areas like Seattle and Spokane, nurses in Washington encounter a wide range of patient backgrounds. This diversity enhances their experience in providing culturally competent care.
• Competitive Salaries and High Cost of Living: Nursing salaries in Washington are generally among the highest in the country, reflecting the state's high cost of living, especially in the Seattle metropolitan area. The financial experience for nurses can vary significantly based on their location within the state.
• Strong Focus on Public Health: Washington has a strong emphasis on public health and preventive care. Nurses often engage in community health initiatives, addressing issues like chronic disease management, mental health, and health disparities.
• Rural Healthcare Challenges: While urban centers offer abundant healthcare resources, rural areas of Washington face challenges such as limited access to healthcare services and higher rates of certain health conditions. Nurses in these areas play a crucial role in providing comprehensive care.
• Professional Development Opportunities: The state is home to several highly regarded nursing programs, offering nurses ample opportunities for professional development and specialization.
• Work-Life Balance: Washington's natural beauty, including its forests, mountains, and coastline, offers nurses a high quality of life and numerous recreational opportunities, contributing to a positive work-life balance.
• Regulatory Environment: The Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission regulates nursing practice, ensuring that nurses meet high standards of professional performance. Staying informed about state-specific regulations is important for nurses.
• Progressive Healthcare Policies: Washington is often at the forefront of progressive healthcare policies and practices, which can impact nursing practice and patient care. Nurses in Washington may experience a dynamic and evolving professional environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do advancement opportunities affect nursing salaries in Washington?

Advancement opportunities can significantly impact a nurse's salary in Washington. Nurses who move into managerial or supervisory roles often see a notable increase in their earnings. Additionally, nurses who pursue advanced certifications or specialize in high-demand areas may also experience salary increases. Continuous professional development and gaining experience in specialized fields are key factors for salary growth in the nursing profession.

Q: How does working part-time affect a nurse's salary in Washington?

Part-time nurses in Washington typically earn a salary proportional to the hours they work, which means their annual income may be lower than that of full-time nurses. However, hourly rates can vary and sometimes may be higher for part-time positions, depending on the employer and the specific demands of the role. Nurses should also consider the potential impact on benefits like health insurance and retirement contributions when choosing part-time work.

Q: Does being part of a nurses' union affect salaries in Washington?

Union representation can play a role in determining nursing salaries in Washington. Unions often negotiate for higher wages, better working conditions, and additional benefits on behalf of their members. Nurses who are part of a union might find that they have access to better salary scales, job security, and support in workplace disputes. However, union membership also comes with responsibilities and dues, which is an important consideration for nurses.