Nurse Salaries in Washington 2026 — Complete Guide
Key Data Points
- Average RN Salary: $85,400 annually
- Average LPN Salary: $52,600 annually
- State Ranking: 8th highest in the nation
- Job Growth: 12% projected through 2026
- Top-Paying Cities: Seattle, Bellevue, and Tacoma
Salary Comparison by Nursing Role
| Nursing Role | Average Salary | Hourly Rate | Job Openings (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse (RN) | $85,400 | $41.06/hour | 3,200+ |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $52,600 | $25.29/hour | 1,100+ |
| Nurse Practitioner (NP) | $118,700 | $57.07/hour | 450+ |
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $38,200 | $18.36/hour | 2,800+ |
Key Factors Affecting Nurse Salaries
- Experience Level: New graduates earn 15-20% less than experienced nurses
- Geographic Location: Urban areas offer 10-15% higher salaries than rural regions
- Hospital Type: Academic medical centers and specialty hospitals pay 8-12% more
- Certifications: Specialized certifications can increase earnings by $3,000-$8,000 annually
- Shift Differentials: Night and weekend shifts provide 10-15% additional pay
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living adjustment needed for Washington nurses?
Washington’s cost of living is approximately 15% above the national average. RN salaries of $85,400 provide comfortable living in most areas, though Seattle and Bellevue require higher salaries for adequate housing.
Are there loan forgiveness programs for nurses in Washington?
Yes. Washington offers the Health Professions Student Loan Repayment Program and federal programs like PSLF. Rural healthcare facilities may offer additional incentives up to $30,000 for commitment periods of 2-3 years.
How does Washington compare to neighboring states?
Washington RN salaries ($85,400) exceed Oregon ($78,900) and Idaho ($71,200) but are comparable to California ($89,200). Washington offers better cost-of-living ratios than California while maintaining strong job growth.
Last verified: April 2026
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