Overview Salaries

Salaries in Washington, DC

Updated on Apr 10, 2026
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Salary

What is the average salary in Washington, DC?

The average salary in Washington, DC is $95,315 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Washington, DC, showing an average salary of $95,315 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Washington, DC, showing an average salary of $7,943 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Washington, DC, showing an average salary of $1,833 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Washington, DC, showing an average salary of $46 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Washington, DC, offers diverse job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary stands at $95,315. This figure highlights the earning potential in the area.

Different professions see varying pay scales. Top earners can make more than $200,000 annually, while the lower end of the scale starts at around $35,900. Here’s a look at some specific salary ranges:

  • 22.89% earn between $35,900 and $54,000
  • 14.44% earn between $54,000 and $72,100
  • 13.03% earn between $72,100 and $90,200
  • 11.50% earn between $90,200 and $108,300
  • 9.35% earn between $108,300 and $126,400
  • 7.81% earn between $126,400 and $144,500
  • 6.25% earn between $144,500 and $162,600
  • 4.10% earn between $162,600 and $180,700
  • 2.63% earn between $180,700 and $198,800
  • 1.90% earn between $198,800 and $216,900
  • 1.10% earn between $216,900 and $235,000
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What are the best paying jobs in Washington, DC?

In Washington, DC, several top-paying jobs offer rewarding career opportunities. Physicians lead with an average salary of about $245,824, followed by general dentists at around $229,501. These roles often require advanced degrees and specialized training but provide excellent compensation. Other high-paying positions include general counsel, regulatory affairs directors, and chief operating officers, all paying well over $188,000 annually. These jobs typically involve leadership and strategic roles that demand significant experience and expertise. In addition to medical and legal fields, technical roles such as technical programs manager and technical architect also pay very well. These positions, which involve managing projects and overseeing technical operations, pay around $170,000 to $180,000 per year. Information security officer roles, crucial for protecting company data, bring in salaries close to $170,000. These jobs appeal to candidates with strong technical skills and an interest in cybersecurity. Each of these careers provides a path to a stable and lucrative job in Washington, DC.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Washington, DC, highlighting Physician with the highest at $245,824 and Information Security Officer with the lowest at $167,969.

  1. Physician
    Average Salary: $245,824
    Doctors provide medical care, diagnose illnesses, and manage patient treatments. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Many specialize in areas like cardiology or oncology.
    Find Physician jobs in Washington, DC


  2. General Dentist
    Average Salary: $229,501
    Dentists focus on oral health, performing cleanings, fillings, and other procedures. They often run their own practices or work in dental clinics. Dental care is crucial for overall health.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Washington, DC


  3. General Counsel
    Average Salary: $229,450
    Corporate lawyers advise companies on legal matters. They handle lawsuits, draft contracts, and ensure compliance with laws. They work in large firms or corporate offices.
    Find General Counsel jobs in Washington, DC


  4. Regulatory Affairs Director
    Average Salary: $200,924
    These professionals ensure companies comply with regulations. They work in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and technology. Their role is crucial for avoiding legal issues.
    Find Regulatory Affairs Director jobs in Washington, DC


  5. Chief Operating Officer
    Average Salary: $199,662
    COOs manage day-to-day operations. They work with executives to improve efficiency. They are key in driving business growth and success.
    Find Chief Operating Officer jobs in Washington, DC


  6. Counsel
    Average Salary: $188,281
    Counselors provide legal advice and support. They work in law firms or corporate settings. Their expertise helps clients navigate complex legal landscapes.
    Find Counsel jobs in Washington, DC


  7. Technical Programs Manager
    Average Salary: $178,546
    These managers oversee technical projects. They coordinate teams and ensure goals are met. They often work in tech companies, improving software and systems.
    Find Technical Programs Manager jobs in Washington, DC


  8. Technical Architect
    Average Salary: $171,327
    Technical architects design system infrastructures. They ensure systems are scalable and secure. They work in IT departments, shaping the tech landscape.
    Find Technical Architect jobs in Washington, DC


  9. Solutions Architect
    Average Salary: $170,246
    Solutions architects design tech solutions for business needs. They work with stakeholders to create effective systems. Their role is vital in tech and consulting firms.
    Find Solutions Architect jobs in Washington, DC


  10. Information Security Officer
    Average Salary: $167,969
    Information security officers protect company data. They implement security measures and respond to threats. They work in various sectors, ensuring data safety.
    Find Information Security Officer jobs in Washington, DC

What are the best paying jobs in Washington, DC without a degree?

For job seekers in Washington, DC, several high-paying roles do not require a college degree. These positions offer a good salary while allowing individuals to gain valuable work experience. Journeyman Level Acoustic Analyst leads the list with an average salary of $115,160, providing a strong earning potential without a degree. In addition to the Journeyman Level Acoustic Analyst, several other jobs in Washington, DC, pay well without a degree. Restaurant managers earn an average of $69,201, and canvassers make about $67,809 per year. Other good options include landscapers, irrigation technicians, and concrete finishers, all offering salaries above $50,000. These roles provide an excellent opportunity for job seekers aiming for a stable income in a dynamic environment.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Washington, DC without a degree, highlighting Journeyman Level Acoustic Analyst with the highest at $115,160 and Housekeeping with the lowest at $44,472.

  1. Journeyman Level Acoustic Analyst
    Average Salary: $115,160
    Working in this role, one helps ensure that noise levels are within acceptable limits. Tasks involve testing and analyzing noise levels. Companies like AECOM and Parsons might hire such a professional.
    Find Journeyman Level Acoustic Analyst jobs in Washington, DC


  2. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $69,201
    A restaurant manager oversees daily operations. They handle staff, inventory, and customer service. They work at places like Union Station Hospitality or Topgolf.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Washington, DC


  3. Canvasser
    Average Salary: $67,809
    This role involves door-to-door interactions to promote products or causes. They talk to residents and collect information. Companies in this field include political campaigns or local businesses.
    Find Canvasser jobs in Washington, DC


  4. Landscaper
    Average Salary: $60,546
    Landscapers maintain and enhance outdoor spaces. They work on gardens, parks, and other greenery. They might work for the National Park Service or private landscaping firms.
    Find Landscaper jobs in Washington, DC


  5. Irrigation Technician
    Average Salary: $52,045
    This role involves managing water supply systems for gardens and crops. They ensure plants get the right amount of water. They work for companies like irrigation firms or government agencies.
    Find Irrigation Technician jobs in Washington, DC


  6. Banquet Houseperson
    Average Salary: $51,679
    They set up and clean banquet areas. They handle decorations and equipment. They work in venues such as the Walter E. Washington Convention Center or local hotels.
    Find Banquet Houseperson jobs in Washington, DC


  7. Kitchen Manager
    Average Salary: $51,324
    This role includes overseeing kitchen staff and operations. They ensure food is prepared safely and on time. They work in restaurants like Potbelly Sandwich Shop or local cafes.
    Find Kitchen Manager jobs in Washington, DC


  8. Concrete Finisher
    Average Salary: $51,223
    They work on concrete surfaces, smoothing and finishing them. They might work on bridges or buildings. Companies like Clark Construction Group employ such professionals.
    Find Concrete Finisher jobs in Washington, DC


  9. Food Service Aide
    Average Salary: $46,536
    This role involves preparing food and assisting in food service areas. They might work in cafeterias or hospitals. They help ensure food is ready and safe.
    Find Food Service Aide jobs in Washington, DC


  10. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $44,472
    They clean and maintain rooms and common areas. They ensure a tidy and safe environment. They work in hotels, office buildings, and hospitals.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Washington, DC

Which companies offer the top salaries in Washington, DC?

SAP leads in offering top salaries in Washington, DC, with an average of $259,741 annually. Companies like Palo Alto Networks and Okta also provide competitive wages, starting at around $237,157 and $198,638, respectively. Job seekers in the area find promising opportunities with these firms, which consistently offer attractive compensation packages. Apple, Google, and Shield AI stand out for their high-paying roles, with average salaries exceeding $175,000. Salesforce, ServiceNow, and Microsoft provide solid incomes, averaging from $170,997 to $192,149 per year. PwC rounds out the list, offering a respectable average salary of $175,431. These companies demonstrate a commitment to rewarding their employees with competitive pay in the vibrant job market of Washington, DC.
Graph displaying company salaries in Washington, DC, highlighting SAP with the highest at $259,741 and Microsoft with the lowest at $170,997.

  1. SAP
    Average Salary: $259,741
    SAP offers software solutions that help businesses manage their operations. They focus on enterprise resource planning (ERP) and customer relationship management (CRM). Many professionals find rewarding careers here.


  2. Palo Alto Networks
    Average Salary: $237,157
    Palo Alto Networks is a cybersecurity firm. They protect companies from cyber threats. Employees enjoy a strong focus on innovation and technology.


  3. Okta
    Average Salary: $198,638
    Okta provides identity management services. They help companies secure access to their digital resources. Their work is crucial for online security.


  4. Salesforce
    Average Salary: $192,149
    Salesforce is a leader in customer relationship management (CRM) software. They help businesses manage customer data and interactions. They have a strong global presence.


  5. ServiceNow
    Average Salary: $187,807
    ServiceNow specializes in cloud-based software. They help businesses manage workflows and operations. Their technology is widely used in many industries.


  6. Apple
    Average Salary: $185,379
    Apple is a global tech giant. They design and sell consumer electronics, software, and online services. Their brand is highly respected in the tech world.


  7. Google
    Average Salary: $178,574
    Google is a leading tech company. They offer many internet services, including search and advertising. They have a reputation for innovation and creativity.


  8. Shield AI
    Average Salary: $175,736
    Shield AI focuses on AI and robotics. They develop software for autonomous systems. Their work is at the cutting edge of technology.


  9. PwC
    Average Salary: $175,431
    PwC is a global professional services firm. They offer audit, tax, and consulting services. They have a strong reputation for quality and expertise.


  10. Microsoft
    Average Salary: $170,997
    Microsoft is a leading software company. They create operating systems, applications, and hardware. Their products are used worldwide.

How does the cost of living in Washington, DC compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Washington, DC, is notably higher than the nationwide average. The city's housing costs alone are 97% higher than the national standard, with other categories such as groceries, utilities, and healthcare also surpassing the average. For instance, housing costs 97% above the national median, while groceries and utilities are 12% and 8% higher, respectively. Overall, Washington, DC, exhibits a cost of living that is approximately 24% above the nationwide average. This significant increase is driven largely by housing expenses, which stand at a staggering 97% more than the national average. Even excluding housing, the remaining costs are still 15% higher than the average, highlighting the higher expenses job seekers may face when considering a move to Washington, DC.
Cost of living comparison graph for Washington, DC vs. Nationwide: housing 97% higher, groceries 12% higher, utilities 8% higher, transportation 13% higher, healthcare 24% higher, miscellaneous 20% higher.

Washington, DC, stands out with a notably high cost of living when compared to the nationwide average. The housing index in Washington, DC, is 197, which is 97% higher than the national average. This significant percentage indicates that housing costs in the capital are nearly double the average cost in other parts of the country. Job seekers and residents should be prepared for higher housing expenses as this sector significantly impacts overall living costs.


Other expenses also reflect the elevated cost of living in Washington, DC. For instance, groceries cost 12% more than the national average, with an index of 112. Utilities follow closely behind at 8% above the average, indexed at 108. Transportation costs are also higher, with an index of 113, representing an increase of 13% compared to the national average. Healthcare and miscellaneous costs also show higher percentages, with indexes of 124 and 120, respectively. These figures indicate a comprehensive trend of increased expenses across various living sectors in Washington, DC.

There are 10,391 job openings in Washington, DC, today!

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Washington, DC
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