Dental Hygienist Salary in Washington
Based on 6K+ workers in Washington
Median Annual Salary (WA)
$131,160
$63.06/hr
vs National Average
$96,870
+35.4% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$107K – $162K
6K employed in Washington
The median Dental Hygienist salary in Washington is $131,160 per year, which translates to approximately $63 per hour. This figure significantly outpaces the national average, standing 35.4% higher. With 6,330 dental hygienists employed in the state, Washington offers a robust job market for this profession.
Several factors influence the Dental Hygienist salary in Washington. Experience level plays a crucial role, with those having more years in the field generally earning higher wages. Geographic location within Washington can also impact pay, as can the specific type of dental practice and its patient volume. Benefits packages and additional responsibilities may also contribute to overall compensation.
Salary Distribution — Dental Hygienist in Washington
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $107,090 |
| 25th percentile | $122,000 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $131,160 |
| 75th percentile | $134,670 |
| 90th percentile | $162,050 |
Top-Paying Industries for Dental Hygienist (U.S.)
Which industries pay Dental Hygienists the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Dental Hygienists in Washington tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative and Support Services | $102,340 | 2K |
| Finance and Insurance | $100,180 | 40 |
| Health Care and Social Assistance | $98,180 | 217K |
| Manufacturing | $96,200 | 40 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $94,570 | 120 |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Dental Hygienist in Washington vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Washington) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $131,160 |
| 2026 (projected) | $135,095 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Washington Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $131,160 | $96,870 |
| 2026 (projected) | $135,095 | $99,776 |
Dental Hygienist Salary by Experience Level in Washington
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $122,000 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $131,160 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $134,670 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $162,050 |
Dental Hygienist Salary in Other States
Related Dental Hygienist Salaries in Washington
How other high-demand occupations in Washington compare to Dental Hygienist ($131,160 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Dental Hygienist | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiologist in WA | $656,330 | +400.4% | $315.54/hr |
| Anesthesiologist in WA | $499,990 | +281.2% | $240.38/hr |
| Surgeon in WA | $479,460 | +265.6% | $230.51/hr |
| Emergency Medicine Physician in WA | $380,870 | +190.4% | $183.11/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in WA | $343,140 | +161.6% | $164.97/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in WA | $340,010 | +159.2% | $163.47/hr |
| Psychiatrist in WA | $304,920 | +132.5% | $146.60/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in WA | $292,900 | +123.3% | $140.82/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in WA | $274,390 | +109.2% | $131.92/hr |
| Podiatrist in WA | $232,970 | +77.6% | $112.00/hr |
| Dentist in WA | $169,730 | +29.4% | $81.60/hr |
| Pediatrician in WA | $169,540 | +29.3% | $81.51/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Dental Hygienist in Washington?
- The median Dental Hygienist salary in Washington is $131,160 per year. This means half of dental hygienists in the state earn more than this amount, and half earn less.
What is the typical salary range for Dental Hygienists in Washington?
- The salary range for Dental Hygienists in Washington typically falls between $107,090 and $162,050 annually. This wide range reflects differences in experience, location, and practice settings.
How does the salary for Dental Hygienists in Washington compare to the national average?
- Dental Hygienists in Washington earn significantly more than the national average, with their median salary being 35.4% higher. This positions Washington as a top-earning state for this profession.
How many Dental Hygienists are employed in Washington?
- There are approximately 6,330 Dental Hygienists employed in Washington. This indicates a substantial demand for these professionals within the state's healthcare system.