Boost your earnings and increase your job options by enrolling in a top nursing school in Washington. Demand for nurses in Washington is double that of the U.S. as a whole. The average salary for registered nurses (RNs) in the state also exceeds $100,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Whether you want to live in the tech-and-arts hub of Seattle or a remote rural area, nurses can find great satisfaction working in Washington. Learn more about the best nursing programs in the state.
The Best Nursing Schools in Washington
With more than 40 nursing programs in Washington for associate degree in nursing (ADN) or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degrees, you can find a school to match your career goals, budget, background, and learning preferences.
This list explores the best nursing schools in Washington.
How We Rank Schools
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best nursing programs, making it easy to find a program that meets your needs. Informed by data from the most reputable sources, including the U.S. Department of Education, our methodology is based on metrics that matter most to nursing students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
How to Choose a Nursing Program in Washington
Whether you want an ADN or a BSN, consider costs (tuition and financial aid), the NCLEX-RN pass rate (one of the most important quality measures), and the program's acceptance rate and admission requirements. Clinical placement options and program logistics should also be factors.
This guide only lists accredited nursing programs, since unaccredited programs can be riskier for your time and money.
Why Become a Nurse in Washington
Nurses are in high demand in Washington, with salaries among the highest in the country.
Washington is one of the few states that requires hospitals to have a staffing committee to establish nurse-patient plans and policies. The Washington Center for Nursing lists some of the many financial aid options for nursing school in Washington.
Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Washington
The projected job growth for RNs in Washington is 13% between 2022 and 2032, compared to 6% for the nation overall, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Nurse practitioner (NP) jobs in Washington show the highest growth at 28.5% in that time period, compared to 28.2% nationally.
The average annual salary for Washington RNs is $111,030 as of 2023, considerably higher than the national average of $94,480, according to the BLS.For NPs, the average salary is $126,480, with the national average at $114,510.
However, the cost-of-living index in Washington is 115.8% (100 nationally), with the cost of living in Seattle standing as one of the highest in the nation.
Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in Washington
Seattle nurse salaries are among the highest in the country, due to increased demand and cost of living. RN salaries are also considerably above the national average in other major Washington cities and metropolitan areas.
| Top Paying Metropolitan Areas | Average Salary for RNs |
|---|---|
| Seattle — Tacoma — Bellevue | $95,120 |
| Olympia — Tumwater | $93,270 |
| Wenatchee | $88,550 |
| Spokane — Spokane Valley | $89,890 |
| Walla Walla | $91,280 |
Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Washington
Whichever state you live in, you must earn a nursing degree, pass the applicable examination, and complete a criminal background check to become a nurse.
Washington requires all nurses to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
RN Requirements
To become a licensed RN in Washington, you must complete an ADN or a BSN program, pass the NCLEX, and submit an application to the state board of nursing. The application includes a criminal background check.
If you attended nursing school in Washington, the school will automatically send a certificate of completion. The application fee is $120, and you must also pay $200 for the NCLEX-RN examination. Washington has a Transition to Practice program for new graduates.
APRN Requirements
To become an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), you must have a current and unencumbered RN license (you may apply for both simultaneously), graduate from a master of science in nursing or doctor of nursing practice program, and pass the relevant board certification for your nursing specialty.
APRNs should apply to the state board of nursing separately for prescribing authority and meet the pharmacology education requirements.
APRN candidates who graduated more than one year before applying and do not have an APRN license from another state must show evidence of at least 250 clinical advanced practice hours. The fee is $125.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Washington
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