Public Service Washington (WA) Rank #7 of 50

Probation Officer Salary in Washington

The median probation officer salary in Washington is $69,288 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $60,250.

Median Salary
$69,288
vs National
+$9,038
State Rank
#7 of 50
Cost of Living
115%

Probation Officer Salary Overview in Washington (2026)

Washington ranks #7 out of 50 states for probation officer compensation. This places Washington in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for probation officers seeking high pay. At $69,288 per year, probation officers in Washington earn $9,038 more than the national median of $60,250.

It's worth noting that Washington's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $69,288 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $60,250.

The salary spread in Washington is significant: probation officers at the 10th percentile earn $43,700, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $105,800 — a $62,100 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 $91,580.

Nationally, probation officer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for probation officers across the country.

Probation Officer Salary in Washington by Experience

In Washington, an entry-level probation officer earns around $46,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $101,200 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$46,000
+$6,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$71,300
+$9,300 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$101,200
+$13,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Washington

Percentile WA Salary
10th Percentile $43,700
25th Percentile $55,200
Median (50th) $69,288
75th Percentile $87,400
90th Percentile $105,800

Probation Officer Salary by City in Washington

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

How to Become a Probation Officer in Washington

Education

Most probation officer positions require a bachelor's degree. Washington has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Case ManagementRisk AssessmentReport WritingCommunicationCrisis InterventionLegal Knowledge

Job Outlook in Washington

Nationally, probation officer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Washington's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Data shows Probation Officers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $31,912 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Probation Officer Salary in Washington

How much does a Probation Officer make in Washington? ▼
The median probation officer salary in Washington is $69,288 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $60,250. Salaries range from $43,700 (10th percentile) to $105,800 (90th percentile).
How much does a Probation Officer make per hour in Washington? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $69,288, a probation officer in Washington earns approximately $33 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Washington a good state for probation officers? ▼
Washington ranks #7 out of 50 states for probation officer pay. The cost of living index is 115% of the national average. Entry-level probation officers earn $46,000, while senior professionals earn $101,200.
How does Washington compare to other states for probation officer salary? ▼
The highest paying state for probation officers is Hawaii at $102,425. Washington's median of $69,288 ranks #7 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New York ($73,505) and New Jersey ($69,288).
What is the entry-level probation officer salary in Washington? ▼
An entry-level probation officer in Washington earns approximately $46,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $71,300. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $101,200.
What city in Washington pays probation officers the most? ▼
Bellevue is the highest paying city in Washington for probation officers, with a median salary of $91,580. Other cities include Seattle and Spokane.