What is the average salary in Washington, DC?
Washington, DC offers a range of salaries across different industries. The average yearly salary in the area stands at $94,112. People in various sectors can expect to earn competitive wages. These numbers show the potential for good financial rewards in the nation's capital.
The salary distribution in Washington, DC reflects a diverse job market. The highest-paying jobs earn around $233,230. Here is a breakdown of the percent distribution and average salaries:
- 22.82% of jobs pay around $35,550.
- 14.63% of jobs pay around $53,521.
- 12.70% of jobs pay around $71,492.
- 12.17% of jobs pay around $89,463.
- 9.62% of jobs pay around $107,434.
- 7.75% of jobs pay around $125,405.
- 5.83% of jobs pay around $143,375.
- 4.00% of jobs pay around $161,346.
- 2.66% of jobs pay around $179,317.
- 1.76% of jobs pay around $197,288.
- 1.06% of jobs pay around $215,259.
What are the best paying jobs in Washington, DC?

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Physician
Average Salary: $246,837
Physicians in the city provide care across various specialties. Opportunities exist at renowned institutions like Johns Hopkins Medicine and MedStar Health. They focus on patient care, research, and teaching.
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General Dentist
Average Salary: $232,155
Dentists work in private practices or health facilities. They provide dental care, including exams, cleanings, and treatments. They often work with companies like Delta Dental and United Concordia.
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General Counsel
Average Salary: $229,974
General Counsels advise on legal matters for organizations. They work in corporate environments like Fannie Mae and Federal Reserve. They draft legal documents and handle litigation.
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Regulatory Affairs Director
Average Salary: $194,652
This role involves managing compliance with regulations. Directors work with companies like AstraZeneca and Novartis. They ensure all operations meet legal standards.
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Chief Operating Officer
Average Salary: $190,829
COOs oversee daily operations for companies. They work in sectors like finance and tech. They focus on efficiency and growth, often at firms like Capital One and Accenture.
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Counsel
Average Salary: $184,326
Counsels provide legal guidance to businesses. They work in firms like WilmerHale and Hogan Lovells. They handle complex cases and provide strategic advice.
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Technical Programs Manager
Average Salary: $174,872
These managers oversee tech projects for companies. They work in the tech sector with firms like Microsoft and Amazon Web Services. They coordinate teams and manage timelines.
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Solar Sales Representative
Average Salary: $171,646
Solar Sales Representatives promote renewable energy solutions. They work with companies like SunPower and Tesla. They educate clients on solar energy benefits.
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Technical Architect
Average Salary: $170,919
Technical Architects design system infrastructures. They work in tech companies like IBM and Oracle. They ensure systems are scalable and efficient.
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Security Director
Average Salary: $167,295
Security Directors manage safety for organizations. They work in sectors like finance and government. They develop security policies and handle emergency response.
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What are the best paying jobs in Washington, DC without a degree?

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Journeyman Level Acoustic Analyst
Average Salary: $113,272
This role involves testing and evaluating acoustics for various projects. It requires skill in acoustic analysis and attention to detail. Opportunities exist in environmental consulting firms, tech companies, and construction firms.
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Canvasser
Average Salary: $67,213
Canvassers gather information and support for campaigns and causes. They engage directly with the community, attending events and speaking with residents. Political campaigns and nonprofit organizations often have openings for this role.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $63,524
Managing a restaurant involves overseeing daily operations, ensuring customer satisfaction, and handling staff. This position is hands-on, requiring strong leadership and communication skills. Many restaurants, from local diners to high-end eateries, need experienced managers.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $59,997
Landscapers maintain and beautify outdoor spaces. They plant, prune, and tend to gardens and lawns. This role involves physical work and a keen eye for aesthetics. Landscaping companies and property management firms often hire landscapers.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $52,045
This role focuses on installing, maintaining, and repairing irrigation systems. Technicians ensure that gardens, parks, and fields receive proper watering. Opportunities are found in landscaping companies and government agencies.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $51,151
A kitchen manager oversees kitchen operations, ensuring food quality and safety. They coordinate with chefs and kitchen staff, managing schedules and inventory. Restaurants, hotels, and catering companies hire kitchen managers.
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Banquet Houseperson
Average Salary: $48,947
These professionals set up and clean banquet areas for events. They ensure tables, chairs, and decorations are ready. Banquet housepersons work in event venues, hotels, and catering services.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $47,797
Concrete finishers shape and finish concrete surfaces. They use tools to smooth and texture concrete for buildings and roads. Construction firms and contractors frequently need skilled finishers.
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Food Service Aide
Average Salary: $45,233
Food service aides help prepare and serve food in restaurants and cafeterias. They clean dishes and assist cooks. This entry-level position is available in many dining establishments.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $43,831
Housekeepers clean and maintain rooms in hotels, motels, and residential properties. They ensure a tidy and welcoming environment. Hospitality businesses and property management companies hire housekeepers.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Washington, DC?

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SAP
Average Salary: $253,984
SAP is a global leader in enterprise software, offering a range of solutions for business applications. They are known for their innovative technology and strong corporate culture.
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Palo Alto Networks
Average Salary: $236,490
Palo Alto Networks specializes in cybersecurity solutions, providing next-generation firewalls and threat detection services to protect businesses and organizations.
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Okta
Average Salary: $196,839
Okta helps organizations manage user identities and access to applications with its identity and access management services. It is a fast-growing company in the tech sector.
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Apple
Average Salary: $187,481
Apple is a tech giant known for its innovative products like iPhones, MacBooks, and more. They offer a wide range of career opportunities in tech, design, and retail.
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ServiceNow
Average Salary: $183,782
ServiceNow provides cloud-based software for enterprise workflow automation, helping businesses streamline their operations and improve efficiency.
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Google
Average Salary: $178,095
Google is a leader in internet-related services, including search engines, advertising, and cloud computing. They offer a dynamic work environment with many growth opportunities.
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PwC
Average Salary: $174,400
PwC is a multinational professional services network offering audit, assurance, consulting, and tax services. They are known for their commitment to professional development.
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Shield AI
Average Salary: $170,771
Shield AI specializes in artificial intelligence and robotics. They develop AI solutions for military and commercial applications, focusing on innovation and technology.
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Motion Recruitment
Average Salary: $169,286
Motion Recruitment is a leading recruitment firm providing staffing and HR solutions to businesses across various industries. They have a strong presence in the tech sector.
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Microsoft
Average Salary: $169,194
Microsoft is a tech giant known for its software products like Windows, Office, and Azure. They offer a wide range of job opportunities in technology, cloud computing, and more.
How does the cost of living in Washington, DC compare to the national average?

Washington, DC, stands out with a significantly higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in the capital are particularly steep, reaching 183 on the index. This means housing expenses in DC are over 80% higher than the average for the rest of the country. For those considering a move to Washington, DC, these numbers suggest that budgeting for housing will need extra attention.
Beyond housing, other costs also exceed the national average. Groceries in DC are about 16% more expensive, with an index of 116, while utilities run at 9% higher at 109. Transportation costs are nearly on par with the national average, sitting at 13% higher with an index of 113. Healthcare costs remain relatively close to the average at 106, only 6% higher. Miscellaneous expenses, such as entertainment and personal care, are also 18% above average, with an index of 118. Overall, while DC offers a vibrant lifestyle, the higher cost of living should be a key consideration for job seekers.



