Drafting schools in Tacoma, WA

6 schools within 30 miles of Tacoma, WA offer CAD & drafting programs, and one is in Tacoma itself. CAD drafters in Washington earn a median $76,820 a year, according to the BLS.

Within 30 miles
6
Closest
3 mi
Public colleges
6
Median pay in WA
$76,820

6 CAD & drafting schools within 30 mi of Tacoma, WA

School results

  1. Tacoma Community College

    Tacoma, WA · 3.1 mi · Public

    • CAD & drafting
    • Nursing assistant (CNA)
    • EMT & paramedic
    • +5
  2. Highline College

    Des Moines, WA · 12 mi · Public

    • CAD & drafting
    • Medical assistant
    • Nursing assistant (CNA)
    • +3
  3. Green River College

    Auburn, WA · 14 mi · Public

    • CAD & drafting
    • Carpentry
    • Welding
    • +12
  4. Hear from the best fits near Tacoma, WA

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  5. Renton Technical College

    Renton, WA · 21 mi · Public

    • CAD & drafting
    • HVAC technician
    • Carpentry
    • +19
  6. Olympic College

    Bremerton, WA · 24 mi · Public

    • CAD & drafting
    • Welding
    • Medical assistant
    • +8
  7. South Puget Sound Community College

    Olympia, WA · 27 mi · Public

    • CAD & drafting
    • Welding
    • CNC machining
    • +7

What CAD drafters earn in Washington

Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.

Median pay
$76,820
$36.93 an hour
Typical range
$53,500–$137,690
10th to 90th percentile
Jobs in WA
1,690
Job growth, 2025–35
-6%
2,900 openings a year (U.S.)

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, and Employment Projections.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the closest CAD & drafting schools to Tacoma?

The closest are Tacoma Community College (Tacoma, 3 mi), Highline College (Des Moines, 12 mi), and Green River College (Auburn, 14 mi). In total, 6 schools within 30 miles teach CAD & drafting.

How much do CAD & drafting programs near Tacoma cost?

For the 6 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $7,172 to $13,803. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.

How much do CAD drafters make near Tacoma?

Across Washington, the median pay is $76,820 a year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay varies by employer, experience and certifications.

How do I choose a CAD & drafting school in Tacoma?

Ask each school about accreditation, total cost after financial aid, hands-on lab hours, certification exam prep, class sizes and job placement. Request info from two or three schools so you can compare their answers side by side.