The Complete Career Guide for Dental Hygienists in Everett, WA

As a local career analyst who’s watched the healthcare job market in the Pacific Northwest evolve over the past decade, I can tell you that Everett is a surprisingly robust, if understated, market for dental hygienists. It’s not Seattle, with its dizzying growth and hyper-competition, nor is it a sleepy suburban town. Everett sits in a sweet spot: a major regional medical hub anchored by Providence, a federal employer in the Naval Station, and a diverse community with a healthy demand for dental care. The cost of living, while rising, is still more manageable than Seattle’s, making it a strategic move for both early-career and seasoned hygienists. This guide is designed to cut through the noise and give you a clear, data-driven picture of what your career and life would look like here.

The Salary Picture: Where Everett Stands

Let's start with the numbers that matter. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local industry data, the median salary for a Dental Hygienist in the Everett metro area is $90,943 per year, which translates to an hourly rate of $43.72 per hour. This is notably higher than the national average of $87,530 per year, a premium that reflects the region's higher cost of living and strong demand for qualified professionals. The metro area supports approximately 222 jobs for hygienists, and the 10-year job growth is projected at a solid 9%. This isn't explosive, but it's steady and indicates a stable, long-term market.

While the national average provides a benchmark, the real story is in the local experience breakdown. Salaries can vary significantly based on your clinical hours, specialty skills, and the type of practice you join.

Experience-Level Breakdown (Everett Metro)

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary Range	Key Factors
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$78,000 - $85,000	General practice, part-time roles, limited specialization. Often starts with a base hourly rate with potential for production bonuses.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$86,000 - $95,000	Full-time roles in established practices, increased speed and efficiency, possibly some exposure to specialties like perio or ortho.
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$92,000 - $105,000	Often leads to lead hygienist roles, mentoring, and working in high-volume or specialty practices (e.g., periodontics, oral surgery).
Expert/Specialist (15+ years)	$100,000+	Roles in academia, corporate consulting, surgical assisting, or managing multiple practice locations. May include administrative duties.

Comparison to Other WA Cities

Everett holds a strong position relative to other Washington cities. It offers a higher median salary than most of the state outside the major metro hubs, while maintaining a lower cost of living than Seattle or Bellevue. For hygienists seeking a balance of wage and affordability, Everett is a compelling option.

City	Median Salary (Dental Hygienist)	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Notes
Everett	$90,943	113.0	Strong healthcare hub, balanced cost.
Seattle	~$98,000	152.4	Higher pay, but significantly higher rent and living costs.
Spokane	~$82,500	95.0	Lower cost of living, but also lower salary ceiling.
Tacoma	~$91,500	108.2	Similar pay to Everett, but with different industry dynamics.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $90,943 sounds great, but your real purchasing power depends on taxes and housing. Washington State has no income tax, which is a massive benefit. However, be prepared for higher-than-average sales tax (around 10% in Everett/Snohomish County) and property taxes.

Let's break down a monthly budget for a single hygienist earning the median salary.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Based on $90,943 Annual Salary)

• Gross Monthly Income: $7,579
• Taxes & Deductions (Est. 25% for FICA, health insurance, retirement): -$1,895
• Net Monthly Take-Home: $5,684
• Average 1BR Rent (Everett Metro): -$1,864
• Remaining for Utilities, Food, Transport, Savings: $3,820

This leaves a comfortable cushion, but it's tight if you have significant student loan debt or other high expenses. The Cost of Living Index of 113.0 means you'll pay about 13% more for goods and services than the national average. However, with no state income tax, your net pay goes further than it would in a high-tax state like California or New York.

Can they afford to buy a home? This is the million-dollar question. The median home price in Everett is currently around $600,000. For a single hygienist earning $90,943, a mortgage on a $600,000 home (with 20% down) would be roughly $2,800/month—over 30% of your gross income, which is the standard benchmark for affordability. This is challenging on a single income, especially with the down payment requirement. However, it's not impossible with careful budgeting, a dual-income household, or targeting more affordable condos/townhomes in the $400,000-$500,000 range.

Where the Jobs Are: Everett's Major Employers

Everett's healthcare landscape is diverse, offering opportunities beyond the standard private practice. Knowing the key players is crucial for your job search.

1. Providence Regional Medical Center Everett (Colby Campus & Pacific Campus): The largest employer in the region. While primarily a hospital, its dental residency programs and outreach clinics create positions for hygienists in hospital-based settings, often with benefits that are hard to beat. Hiring trends favor those with experience in medical-dental integration and a willingness to work with diverse patient populations, including low-income and elderly patients.

2. Community Health Centers of Snohomish County (CHCS): A network of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) with multiple locations in Everett and the surrounding county. These roles are mission-driven, serving underserved communities. The pay is slightly below the median but comes with excellent benefits, including Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility. They are consistently hiring to meet community demand.

3. Private Practice Networks: Large groups like Dental Associates of Everett and Aspen Dental have a presence. These practices often offer productivity-based compensation, which can push earnings above the median for efficient hygienists. Hiring is frequent, but turnover can be higher due to corporate metrics.

4. Naval Hospital Everett (Naval Station Everett): A federal employer offering competitive federal pay scales and exceptional job security. Positions here require a security clearance, which can be a hurdle, but the benefits (pension, healthcare) are unparalleled. It’s a niche but stable market.

5. Puget Sound Pediatric Dentistry & Regional Specialty Clinics: Everett has a growing number of specialty practices (pediatrics, orthodontics, periodontics). These often pay a premium ($5-$10/hour more than general practice) for hygienists with specific training or certifications (e.g., in laser therapy or pediatric patient management).

6. Everett Community College Dental Hygiene Program: For those interested in education, the local community college is a potential employer. Adjunct faculty positions are sometimes available and can be a great way to diversify income and build a network.

Insider Tip: The biggest hiring trend is the shift toward value-based care and oral-systemic health connections. Hygienists who can document systemic health links (e.g., diabetes, cardiovascular disease) and work in integrated care models are highly sought after, especially by larger employers like Providence and CHCS.

Getting Licensed in WA

Washington State has specific requirements through the Department of Health (DOH) and the Washington State Dental Association (WSDA). The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail.

Required Steps:

1. Education: Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program (like the one at Everett Community College or nearby Green River College).
2. National Board Exams: Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE).
3. Regional Clinical Exam: Pass a clinical exam like the Western Regional Examining Board (WREB) or CA State Board.
4. Washington State Law Exam: Pass the Washington State Law and Ethics Exam (administered by the WSDA).
5. License Application: Submit an application to the Washington DOH with required fees (approx. $225 for the application, plus exam fees). You'll need to provide proof of CPR certification and a background check.

Timeline & Costs:

• From graduation to license: Typically 3-6 months if all exams are passed on the first try.
• Total Estimated Cost (Exams + Fees): $1,800 - $2,500 (includes NBDHE, WREB, state law exam, and application fees). This does not include the cost of your education.

Continuing Education (CE): Washington requires 30 hours of CE every 2 years, with specific requirements in infection control and pain management. Local study clubs (like the Snohomish County Dental Hygiene Society) are excellent resources for affordable CE.

Best Neighborhoods for Dental Hygenists

Choosing where to live depends on your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a local’s guide to Everett’s neighborhoods.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute to Providence	1BR Rent Estimate	Best For
Northwest Everett (Port Gardner)	Quiet, residential, near the waterfront. 10-15 min drive to hospitals.	$1,700 - $1,900	Those wanting a peaceful home base with easy access to parks.
Downtown Everett	Urban, walkable, near the marina and events. 5-10 min drive.	$1,800 - $2,100	Young professionals who want nightlife and a shorter commute.
Southwest Everett (Airport Way)	More industrial, but with pockets of newer apartments. 15-20 min commute.	$1,600 - $1,800	Budget-conscious hygienists willing to drive a bit farther for cheaper rent.
Mill Creek	Suburban, family-friendly, excellent schools. 20-25 min drive to Everett.	$1,900 - $2,200+	Those planning for a family or wanting a classic suburban lifestyle.
Silver Lake	Quiet, lakefront living, very residential. 15-20 min commute.	$1,750 - $2,000	Hygienists who love outdoor activities and a tight-knit community feel.

Insider Tip: Traffic on I-5 and I-405 can be brutal during rush hour. If you work at Providence, living north (like in Mill Creek) can mean a reverse commute, which is a significant quality-of-life advantage. If you work at a practice in south Everett, consider neighborhoods like Silver Lake.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Everett offers a solid path for advancement if you're strategic.

• Specialty Premiums: As mentioned, specializing can boost your income. Hygienists with certifications in periodontal therapy or pediatric care can command $2-8 more per hour. Working in oral surgery or orthodontics often includes a higher base salary or a more favorable commission structure.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Lead Hygienist: Managing a team, ordering supplies, training new hires.
  2. Clinical Director: Overseeing hygiene and assistant operations for a group practice.
  3. Education & Consulting: Teaching at a community college, providing corporate training, or consulting for dental product companies.
  4. Public Health: Moving into roles with the Snohomish Health District, focusing on community-wide prevention programs.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 9% job growth is promising. The aging population in Everett (like much of the U.S.) will increase demand for periodontal and restorative care. The rise of teledentistry and AI in diagnostics may change the role, but it's more likely to augment hygienists than replace them. The key will be adaptability and continuous learning.

The Verdict: Is Everett Right for You?

Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons of building your career in Everett.

Pros	Cons
Strong Salary Premium: $90,943 median is above the national average.	High Cost of Living: Rent at $1,864/month and an index of 113.0 eat into that premium.
Diverse Job Market: Mix of hospitals, FQHCs, private practice, and federal jobs.	Competition for Top Jobs: The best positions in specialty practices or hospitals can be competitive.
Excellent Work-Life Balance: Less intense than Seattle's market; manageable commutes if you choose your neighborhood wisely.	Traffic Congestion: I-5 and I-405 are major arteries and can be frustrating.
No State Income Tax: A significant financial advantage that boosts your take-home pay.	Limited "Big City" Amenities: While growing, Everett lacks the cultural density of Seattle.
Steady Job Growth: 9% projected growth offers long-term stability.	Weather: The famous Pacific Northwest rain and gray skies from October to May can be a mood factor.

Final Recommendation: Everett is an excellent choice for Dental Hygienists who prioritize a balance of good pay and manageable living costs. It's particularly well-suited for mid-career professionals looking to buy a home or start a family, and for those who value a less frantic pace than Seattle without sacrificing career opportunities. If you're highly specialized or seeking the absolute highest salary ceiling, Seattle or Bellevue might offer a slight edge, but the trade-off in cost and quality of life is substantial.

FAQs

1. I'm an out-of-state hygienist. How long will it take to get licensed in Washington?
If you already have an active license in another state, you may qualify for licensure by credentials. The process can be faster (2-4 months) if you meet the experience and exam requirements. Contact the Washington DOH for a specific evaluation. If you need to take the Washington State Law exam, add a month to your timeline.

2. Are dental hygienist jobs in Everett full-time or part-time?
Both are common. Many private practices offer full-time positions (32-40 hours/week) with benefits. FQHCs and hospitals often have full-time roles. However, there's also a significant market for part-time and per-diem work, which is common in the dental field and allows for flexibility.

3. What is the job market like for new graduates?
It's solid but competitive for the best positions. New graduates should be prepared to start in general practice. Networking through clinical rotations and the WSDA student events is crucial. Everett Community College’s program has strong local ties, giving its graduates a slight advantage in the local market.

4. How does the cost of living in Everett compare to Seattle for a hygienist?
While the median salary in Everett ($90,943) is slightly lower than Seattle's (~$98,000), Everett's rent is often 30-40% lower than Seattle's. After accounting for taxes (no state income tax in both) and housing, the disposable income for a single hygienist in Everett can be $800-$1,200 higher per month than in Seattle.

5. What are the best ways to network in the local dental community?
Join the Washington State Dental Association (WSDA) and the Snohomish County Dental Hygiene Society. Attend local meetings and study clubs. Also, volunteer at community dental events (like the annual "Give Kids a Smile" day). These connections are invaluable for learning about unadvertised job openings.