Clergy in Washington
Clergy lead religious worship services and provide spiritual guidance to members of their faith communities. They conduct ceremonies, deliver sermons, offer counseling, and perform rituals according to their religious tradition In Washington the median pay is $80,830 a year, 33% above the national median of $60,810.
$80,830median pay in Washington, per year
$68,890–$91,410middle half earn
1,060employed in Washington
$60,810U.S. median, for comparison
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against clergy and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against clergy and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
SpeakingActive ListeningSocial PerceptivenessInstructingService OrientationReading ComprehensionWritingPersuasion
Knowledge areas
Philosophy and TheologyEnglish LanguageAdministration and ManagementCustomer and Personal ServiceEducation and TrainingTherapy and Counseling
Full profile, interests that fit, certifications and training: Clergy.
Licenses and training in Washington
Clergy pay in other states
California · $77,710Nevada · $73,910Massachusetts · $72,190New Jersey · $65,500New Hampshire · $65,200Vermont · $64,950District of Columbia · $64,800Maine · $64,340New Mexico · $64,100Colorado · $63,700
Related occupations
Directors, Religious Activities and EducationReligious Workers, All OtherSubstance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder CounselorsEducational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and AdvisorsMarriage and Family TherapistsMental Health CounselorsRehabilitation CounselorsCounselors, All Other
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against clergy and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against clergy and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 21-2011.00. Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, Washington, annual.