Gender Wage Gap Widens in Northwest Washington

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A new report from the National Partnership for Women & Families reveals that the gender wage gap in Washington state is wider than the national average, with women statewide earning about $18,500 less per year than men. The gap is even more pronounced in Congressional District Two, which includes Bellingham, where women earn just 69 cents for every dollar paid to men.

Why it matters

Pay inequity between genders has far-reaching implications, contributing to economic insecurity for women and their families. The findings highlight the need for continued efforts to address systemic barriers and ensure fair compensation regardless of gender, especially in regions like northwest Washington where the gap appears to be more severe.

The details

The report found that the gender wage gap affects some women more than others, with Latina women facing the largest disparity at nearly $38,000 less per year, while Asian American women see the smallest gap at about $13,000. Nationally, women earn about 76 cents on the dollar, losing nearly two trillion dollars each year due to pay inequity.

• The report was released on March 28, 2026.