If you are looking for a high-earning state for dental hygienists, one of the top choices is Washington. Washington is the 13th most populous state in the country, and is known as “The Evergreen State.” Situated in the Pacific Northwest, it offers a dramatic landscape of temperate rainforests, high mountain peaks, and deep fjords.
In fact, one of the most popular destinations in Washington State is Mount Rainier National Park. Other spots which showcase tremendous natural beauty include Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park and Snoqualmie Falls. While many of Washington’s most popular sights are found in the state’s parkland, Washington has a lot to offer urban residents and visitors as well. Seattle is home to the Museum of Flight and Chihuly Garden and Glass. More of a sports fan? Football fans can follow the Seattle Seahawks while baseball fans can root for the Mariners.
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Dental Hygienist Salary in Washington
Washington really is a very exciting state to live and work in as a dental hygienist. Besides getting to live in a beautiful state, you are being paid well to do it! Before I tell you what dental hygienists earn in Washington, I want to tell you what they make nationwide. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that the median annual salary for dental hygienists across the country is $70,210 per year, or $33.75 per hour.
Now compare that to what dental hygienists make in Washington State. The BLS reports that the median annual pay for Washington dental hygienists is $92,820, or $44.63 per hour! That is significantly higher than the average nationwide! Washington can be an expensive state to live in, but if you make smart choices and spend conservatively, you can enjoy putting away some extra money each month. That’s a big deal if you want to save up toward a higher standard of living or your retirement.
To add to the excitement, dental hygiene is a swiftly growing field at a rate of 20%. That is going to represent a ton of new job openings in Washington over the coming years. This is the time to get your foot in the door and build the career you are dreaming of.
| Area Name | Employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beckley | 60 | 26.02 | 54120 |
| Charleston | 250 | 28.56 | 59400 |
| Huntington, Ashland | 190 | 28.38 | 59030 |
| Morgantown | 70 | 29.20 | 60750 |
| Northern West Virginia nonmetropolitan area | 210 | 29.33 | 61000 |
| Parkersburg, Vienna | 100 | 25.58 | 53200 |
| Southern West Virginia nonmetropolitan area | 90 | 23.53 | 48940 |
| Weirton, Steubenville | 90 | 25.03 | 52060 |
| Wheeling | 120 | 23.65 | 49190 |
License Requirements
Ready to take the leap and start training as a Washington dental hygienist? If so, you will need to complete the following requirements:
- Start by completing an accredited dental program in the state.
- Take and pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination.
- Washington State requires you to also pass a number of other clinical exams including CITA, CRDTS, CDCA, and WREB.
- You will be required to obtain a CPR license.
- 560 practice hours are required within the past two years.
- There is no teacher license available, and no retired/inactive license either.
- There is a temporary license; it is renewable within certain limitations.
- A background check may be required, including an AADE query and license verification.
- If you have a criminal history including any serious misdemeanors or felonies, you may be denied your license.
Washington Dental Hygiene Programs
If you are excited to start learning and working as a dental hygienist in Washington State, then you will need to start by selecting an accredited school to attend to earn your degree! We have compiled a thorough list below along with all the contact information you need to find out more about the programs or enroll. Good luck!
| Institute | Address | Website | Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bridge Valley Community & Technical College | 619 2nd Avenue Montgomery, WV 25136 | www.bridgevalley.edu | AS |
| West Liberty University | 208 University Drive, College Union Box 121 West Liberty, WV 26074 | www.westliberty.edu | AS |
| West Virginia University | 1188 HSC-N, P.O. Box 9425 Morgantown, WV 26506 | www.wvu.edu | BS-DH |