Average Paramedics Salary in Washington
Paramedics in Washington State command an impressive average annual salary of $98,390, significantly outpacing the national average of $58,870. This substantial difference is largely attributable to Washington's robust economy, higher demand for specialized healthcare services, and the state's generally higher cost of living, which necessitates competitive compensation to attract and retain skilled professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $98,390 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 18.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $134,260.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 2,120 paramedics and a Location Quotient of 0.93, Washington presents a stable, albeit slightly below national average concentration, job market for these essential healthcare providers. The presence of a substantial workforce indicates consistent demand, while the near-average concentration suggests a healthy balance between available positions and qualified professionals, making it a reliable area for employment.
Salary Overview
The average Paramedics in Washington earns+67.1%above the national average.
$47.3
$1,892
$8,199
Paramedics Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that paramedic salaries in Washington have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing healthcare needs, advancements in emergency medical technology, and ongoing inflation likely contribute to a positive salary trajectory for experienced professionals in this critical field.
Paramedics Salary Distribution in Washington
Career progression for paramedics in Washington typically involves a significant salary increase from entry-level to senior positions. While specific percentile data isn't available, the expected salary range widens considerably with experience, reflecting increased responsibility, specialized skills, and a proven track record in critical care. This salary scaling is a key indicator of career advancement opportunities within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $52,730 | $25.4 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $73,793 | $35.5 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $100,780 | $48.5 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $122,988 | $59.1 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $134,260 | $64.5 |
Detailed Paramedics Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$98,390
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$85,482
Adjusted for COL (115.1)
The nominal average salary of $98,390 in Washington must be considered alongside its Cost of Living Index of 115.1. This index, which is 15.1% higher than the national average, means that while the gross salary is high, the purchasing power is somewhat diminished by the increased cost of goods and services, particularly housing. Prospective paramedics should factor this into their financial planning.
Job Market Context
2,120
Total Jobs
0.6
Per 1K Jobs
0.93
Location Quotient
Washington has 0.93x the national average concentration of Paramedics jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
Washington's Location Quotient of 0.93 indicates that the concentration of paramedics is just slightly below the national average. This suggests that while the state employs a significant number of these professionals, the market is not oversaturated, nor is it exceptionally scarce. It implies a competitive but accessible job market where skilled individuals can find opportunities.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Paramedics
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA Paramedics Salary | $122,110↑ 24% | 42 mi |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee, WA Paramedics Salary | $75,450↓ 23% | 54 mi |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard, WA Paramedics Salary | $113,850↑ 16% | 58 mi |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater, WA Paramedics Salary | $99,460↑ 1% | 70 mi |
Comparing salaries near Washington
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Paramedics make in Washington?
The median annual salary for a Paramedics in Washington is $98,390. This typically ranges from $52,730 for entry-level positions to $134,260 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Washington is 67.1% higher than the national median of $58,870.
Is Washington a lucrative place for Paramedics?
Yes, Washington offers lucrative opportunities for Paramedics.Paramedics in Washington earn a significantly higher average salary than the national average. However, the higher cost of living means that the real value of this salary should be carefully considered.
Is Washington a good place to live for Paramedics?
The Cost of Living Index in Washington is 115.1. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Washington?
Some top paying nearby cities include Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA ($122,110) and Wenatchee-East Wenatchee, WA.
How does the number of jobs per 1,000 workers affect paramedic opportunities in Washington?
With 0.6 jobs per 1,000 workers, Washington shows a moderate level of demand for paramedics relative to its overall workforce, indicating a steady but not overwhelming job market.
What is the significance of the Location Quotient for paramedics in Washington?
A Location Quotient of 0.93 suggests that the density of paramedic jobs in Washington is slightly lower than the national average, implying a balanced job market with reasonable competition.
How does the cost of living in Washington compare to the national average for paramedics?
Washington's Cost of Living Index is 115.1, meaning it is 15.1% more expensive to live there than the national average, which impacts the effective take-home pay of a paramedic.
What is the total number of paramedics employed in Washington State?
There are approximately 2,120 paramedics employed within Washington State, reflecting a substantial local workforce dedicated to emergency medical services.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 2,120 employees in the Washington area with a job density of 0.6 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Paramedics • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Washington