Healthcare Washington (WA) Rank #7 of 50

Genetic Counselor Salary in Washington

The median genetic counselor salary in Washington is $107,088 per year, which is 19.0% above the national median of $89,990.

Median Salary
$107,088
vs National
+$17,098
State Rank
#7 of 50
Cost of Living
115%

Genetic Counselor Salary Overview in Washington (2026)

Washington ranks #7 out of 50 states for genetic counselor compensation. This places Washington in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for genetic counselors seeking high pay. At $107,088 per year, genetic counselors in Washington earn $17,098 more than the national median of $89,990.

It's worth noting that Washington's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $107,088 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $93,120.

The salary spread in Washington is significant: genetic counselors at the 10th percentile earn $71,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $154,700 — a $83,300 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 $140,384.

Nationally, genetic counselor employment is projected to grow 26% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Washington and beyond.

Genetic Counselor Salary in Washington by Experience

In Washington, an entry-level genetic counselor earns around $73,780, while experienced professionals earn up to $148,750 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$73,780
+$11,780 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$108,290
+$17,290 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$148,750
+$23,750 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Washington

Percentile WA Salary
10th Percentile $71,400
25th Percentile $88,060
Median (50th) $107,088
75th Percentile $128,520
90th Percentile $154,700

Genetic Counselor Salary by City in Washington

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

How to Become a Genetic Counselor in Washington

Education

Most genetic counselor positions require a master's degree. Washington has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

GeneticsPatient CounselingPedigree AnalysisGenetic TestingCommunicationEthics

Job Outlook in Washington

Nationally, genetic counselor employment is projected to grow 26% over the next decade (much faster than average). Washington's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Genetic Counselor Salary in Washington

How much does a Genetic Counselor make in Washington? ▼
The median genetic counselor salary in Washington is $107,088 per year, which is 19.0% above the national median of $89,990. Salaries range from $71,400 (10th percentile) to $154,700 (90th percentile).
How much does a Genetic Counselor make per hour in Washington? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $107,088, a genetic counselor in Washington earns approximately $51 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Washington a good state for genetic counselors? ▼
Washington ranks #7 out of 50 states for genetic counselor pay. The cost of living index is 115% of the national average. Entry-level genetic counselors earn $73,780, while senior professionals earn $148,750.
How does Washington compare to other states for genetic counselor salary? ▼
The highest paying state for genetic counselors is Hawaii at $160,182. Washington's median of $107,088 ranks #7 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New York ($114,287) and New Jersey ($107,988).
What is the entry-level genetic counselor salary in Washington? ▼
An entry-level genetic counselor in Washington earns approximately $73,780 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $108,290. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $148,750.
What city in Washington pays genetic counselors the most? ▼
Bellevue is the highest paying city in Washington for genetic counselors, with a median salary of $140,384. Other cities include Seattle and Spokane.