Learn more about average salaries, cost of living, and expenses in the Washington region.
Salaries
Salaries range from $45,000-$55,000 for new teachers in Washington. Corps members are independently hired by local schools or districts. They are responsible for obtaining certification and employment and are not paid by TFA.
- Monthly Pre-Tax Salary: $3,425
- Taxes: $500
- Health Insurance: $200
- Monthly Take Home Pay: $2,725
Benefits
School districts within Washington state provide full medical and dental benefits, as well as an excellent state retirement plan regulated by the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems.
Optional retirement programs such as a 457 Deferred Compensation Plan and 403b Tax Sheltered Annuities are also offered by the district.
Moving Costs
The following are estimates of the up-front costs for renting an apartment in our region, including deposits, broker's fee, and utility deposits (all estimates include first month's rent):
Greater Puget Sound
- Single: $2800-$3000
- Shared: $1500-$2000
South Central Washington
- Single: $1200-$1600
- Shared: $800-$900
Additional Costs
The following are additional costs that corps members are required to cover before their first paycheck:
- Tests: $310
- Study Guides: $65
- Estimated Up-Front Certification Program Cost: $6,500
- Institute Fingerprinting: $80
- District Fingerprinting: $80
Rent & Utilities
Below you'll find estimates of the average monthly rent for both single and shared apartments in the Greater Puget Sound and South Central Washington.
Greater Puget Sound
The lower end of these ranges are for Federal Way averages. The higher ends of these ranges are for Seattle averages.
- Single: $1200-$1800
- Shared: $700-$1100
South Central Washington
The lower end of these ranges are for the lower Yakima Valley. The higher end of these ranges are for Tri-Cities averages.
- Single: $650-$900
- Shared: $400-$500
Living Expenses
Average utilities across the state range from $65-$75.
Transportation
Most corps members find that a car is required to get around. However, some corps member opt to use public transportation or carpool.