Washington’s life sciences jobs continue increasing, up 50% from 2014-2024: report
Washington’s life sciences employment grew 50% from 2014 to 2024, continuing to expand even as national job numbers declined slightly.
The state added jobs year over year in 2024, rising 1.9% while U.S. employment fell 0.3%, a trend attributed to the strength of mid-sized companies and a shift toward building and retaining operations locally. “Washington has become a place where people want to build and expand companies,” said Life Science Washington CEO Marc Cummings. While some employers are cautious amid funding uncertainty and layoffs persist, hiring continues across biotech, medical devices, and digital health, with more than 1,100 organizations operating statewide.
This sustained job growth reinforces Washington’s position as a leading life sciences hub with expanding opportunities across research, manufacturing, and emerging health technologies.