Physician Assistant Salary in Washington
The median physician assistant salary in Washington is $149,952 per year, which is 19.0% above the national median of $126,010.
Physician Assistant Salary Overview in Washington (2026)
Washington ranks #7 out of 50 states for physician assistant compensation. This places Washington in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for physician assistants seeking high pay. At $149,952 per year, physician assistants in Washington earn $23,942 more than the national median of $126,010.
It's worth noting that Washington's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $149,952 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $130,393.
The salary spread in Washington is significant: physician assistants at the 10th percentile earn $99,960, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $207,060 — a $107,100 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 $196,576.
Nationally, physician assistant employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Washington and beyond.
Physician Assistant Salary in Washington by Experience
In Washington, an entry-level physician assistant earns around $104,720, while experienced professionals earn up to $192,780 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Washington
| Percentile | WA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $99,960 |
| 25th Percentile | $126,140 |
| Median (50th) | $149,952 |
| 75th Percentile | $179,690 |
| 90th Percentile | $207,060 |
Physician Assistant Salary by City in Washington
The largest employment areas for physician assistants in Washington include Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Physician Assistant in Washington
Education
Most physician assistant positions require a master's degree. Washington has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Washington
Nationally, physician assistant employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). Washington's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Physician Assistants who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $42,828 over your career trajectory.
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