What is the average salary in Washington, DC?
Washington, DC, offers competitive salaries across various industries. The average yearly salary stands at $92,790. This figure reflects the diverse job market and the high demand for skilled professionals. Job seekers can find opportunities in sectors like government, finance, and technology, where salaries often exceed the average.
The salary distribution in Washington, DC, shows a wide range of earnings. The top-paying sectors include:
- Information Technology: $123,745
- Finance and Insurance: $106,036
- Professional and Business Services: $88,327
- Healthcare and Social Assistance: $70,618
- Education Services: $52,909
These figures highlight the potential for higher earnings in certain fields, making Washington, DC, an attractive location for job seekers aiming for a lucrative career.
What are the best paying jobs in Washington, DC?

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Physician
Average Salary: $235,412
Medical professionals diagnose and treat patients. They work in hospitals and clinics. Many physicians specialize in areas like cardiology or pediatrics.
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General Dentist
Average Salary: $229,396
Dentists focus on oral health. They perform cleanings, fillings, and extractions. They work in private practices and clinics, ensuring patients maintain healthy teeth and gums.
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General Counsel
Average Salary: $226,749
General Counsels provide legal advice to organizations. They handle contracts, compliance, and litigation. They work in corporate settings, ensuring the company adheres to laws and regulations.
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Regulatory Affairs Director
Average Salary: $190,429
Regulatory Affairs Directors ensure compliance with laws and regulations. They work in industries like pharmaceuticals and technology. They manage documentation and liaise with regulatory bodies.
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Chief Operating Officer
Average Salary: $182,395
Chief Operating Officers oversee daily operations. They ensure efficiency and productivity. They work in various sectors, managing teams and implementing strategies.
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Counsel
Average Salary: $182,244
Counsels provide legal advice and support. They handle cases, draft documents, and represent clients. They work in law firms, corporations, and government agencies.
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Solar Sales Representative
Average Salary: $178,663
Solar Sales Representatives promote solar energy solutions. They educate clients on benefits and install systems. They work with companies specializing in renewable energy.
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Technical Programs Manager
Average Salary: $171,679
Technical Programs Managers oversee technical projects. They coordinate teams and manage timelines. They work in tech companies, ensuring projects meet deadlines and goals.
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Technical Architect
Average Salary: $167,241
Technical Architects design system infrastructures. They create blueprints and ensure systems run smoothly. They work in IT firms, focusing on technology solutions.
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Solutions Architect
Average Salary: $164,866
Solutions Architects design software solutions. They analyze needs and develop systems. They work in tech companies, creating software that meets client requirements.
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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: $103,552
This role involves analyzing sound levels in various environments. It requires experience and skills in acoustics. Companies like AECOM and Arup hire for these positions.
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Float Operator
Average Salary: $100,708
Float operators manage concrete finishing. They ensure smooth surfaces on construction sites. Firms like Clark Construction Group and Whiting-Turner Contracting Company look for skilled operators.
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Canvasser
Average Salary: $66,141
Canvassers gather information and support for campaigns. They visit homes and businesses to promote causes. Organizations like the Democratic National Committee and local political campaigns hire canvassers.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $63,606
Restaurant managers oversee daily operations. They handle staff, customer service, and inventory. Restaurants like The Hamilton and Founding Farmers hire managers with experience.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $62,226
Landscapers maintain and design outdoor spaces. They plant, prune, and care for gardens. Companies like TruGreen and local landscaping firms offer these jobs.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $52,229
Kitchen managers supervise kitchen staff. They ensure food quality and kitchen cleanliness. Restaurants like P.F. Chang's and local eateries hire kitchen managers.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $52,045
Irrigation technicians install and maintain irrigation systems. They work on lawns, parks, and farms. Companies like TruGreen and local irrigation firms offer these positions.
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Banquet Houseperson
Average Salary: $47,483
Banquet housepersons set up and clean banquet areas. They work at events and venues. Companies like Marriott and local event spaces hire housepersons.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $46,639
Concrete finishers shape and finish concrete surfaces. They work on construction sites. Firms like Clark Construction Group and Whiting-Turner Contracting Company hire finishers.
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Food Service Aide
Average Salary: $44,310
Food service aides assist in food preparation and service. They work in restaurants and cafeterias. Restaurants like P.F. Chang's and local eateries hire aides.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Washington, DC?

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SAP
Average Salary: $247,918
SAP is a leading software company. It offers enterprise software to manage business operations and customer relations.
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Palo Alto Networks
Average Salary: $239,429
Palo Alto Networks provides cybersecurity solutions. It helps protect businesses from cyber threats.
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Okta
Average Salary: $196,488
Okta is a cloud software company. It provides identity and access management services.
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Apple
Average Salary: $188,506
Apple designs and sells consumer electronics, computers, and online services. It is a global tech giant.
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Google
Average Salary: $178,683
Google is a tech company. It offers internet-related services and products, including search engines and cloud computing.
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PwC
Average Salary: $173,263
PwC is a professional services firm. It provides audit, assurance, consulting, and tax services.
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Shield AI
Average Salary: $170,798
Shield AI is a tech company. It specializes in artificial intelligence and autonomous systems.
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Microsoft
Average Salary: $168,581
Microsoft is a tech company. It develops software, hardware, and cloud services.
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Motion Recruitment
Average Salary: $167,844
Motion Recruitment is a staffing firm. It helps companies find and hire the right talent.
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Visa
Average Salary: $166,197
Visa is a financial services company. It provides payment services to businesses and consumers.
How does the cost of living in Washington, DC compare to the national average?

Washington, DC, has a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average. The housing index in Washington, DC, stands at 178, which is 78% higher than the national average. This means that housing costs in the capital are significantly more expensive, making it a critical factor for job seekers considering relocation.
Other expenses in Washington, DC, also exceed the national average. For instance, groceries cost 15% more, with an index of 115. Utilities are 10% higher at 110, while transportation costs are 27% above average at 127. Healthcare costs are slightly below average at 108, offering a small relief. Miscellaneous expenses, such as entertainment and personal care, are 30% higher at 130. These figures highlight the overall higher expenses that professionals may face when considering a move to Washington, DC.



