Public Service Washington (WA) Rank #7 of 50

EMT/Paramedic Salary in Washington

The median emt/paramedic salary in Washington is $44,770 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $38,930.

Median Salary
$44,770
vs National
+$5,840
State Rank
#7 of 50
Cost of Living
115%

EMT/Paramedic Salary Overview in Washington (2026)

Washington ranks #7 out of 50 states for emt/paramedic compensation. This places Washington in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for emt/paramedics seeking high pay. At $44,770 per year, emt/paramedics in Washington earn $5,840 more than the national median of $38,930.

It's worth noting that Washington's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $44,770 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $38,930.

The salary spread in Washington is significant: emt/paramedics at the 10th percentile earn $29,900, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $71,300 — a $41,400 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Washington for this role is Bellevue, where the median reaches $59,174.

Nationally, emt/paramedic employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for emt/paramedics across the country.

EMT/Paramedic Salary in Washington by Experience

In Washington, an entry-level emt/paramedic earns around $32,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $66,700 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$32,200
+$4,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$46,000
+$6,000 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$66,700
+$8,700 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Washington

Percentile WA Salary
10th Percentile $29,900
25th Percentile $35,650
Median (50th) $44,770
75th Percentile $57,500
90th Percentile $71,300

EMT/Paramedic Salary by City in Washington

The largest employment areas for emt/paramedics in Washington include Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a EMT/Paramedic in Washington

Education

Most emt/paramedic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Washington has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Emergency MedicineCPR/ALSPatient AssessmentTrauma CareCommunicationDriving

Job Outlook in Washington

Nationally, emt/paramedic employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Washington's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: EMT/Paramedic Salary in Washington

How much does a EMT/Paramedic make in Washington? ▼
The median emt/paramedic salary in Washington is $44,770 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $38,930. Salaries range from $29,900 (10th percentile) to $71,300 (90th percentile).
How much does a EMT/Paramedic make per hour in Washington? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $44,770, a emt/paramedic in Washington earns approximately $22 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Washington a good state for emt/paramedics? ▼
Washington ranks #7 out of 50 states for emt/paramedic pay. The cost of living index is 115% of the national average. Entry-level emt/paramedics earn $32,200, while senior professionals earn $66,700.
How does Washington compare to other states for emt/paramedic salary? ▼
The highest paying state for emt/paramedics is Hawaii at $66,181. Washington's median of $44,770 ranks #7 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New York ($47,495) and New Jersey ($44,770).
What is the entry-level emt/paramedic salary in Washington? ▼
An entry-level emt/paramedic in Washington earns approximately $32,200 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $46,000. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $66,700.
What city in Washington pays emt/paramedics the most? ▼
Bellevue is the highest paying city in Washington for emt/paramedics, with a median salary of $59,174. Other cities include Seattle and Spokane.