Salary in District of Columbia: 25% Above National
Washington DC is the seat of the US federal government and supports the highest concentration of federal, defense, and consulting jobs in the country. Salaries are elevated to reflect both pay scale and cost of living.
As of April 2026, salaries in District of Columbia run 25% above the US national median. Cost of living index: 152 (vs 100 nationally). State income tax applies. Top hiring metros: Washington. Unemployment rate 5%. Washington DC is the seat of the US federal government and supports the highest concentration of federal, defense, and consulting jobs in the country. Salaries are elevated to reflect both pay scale and cost of living.
Top Industries in District of Columbia
Top District of Columbia Metros
Salaries by Job in District of Columbia
50 jobs sorted by District of Columbia median salary.
Methodology
District of Columbia salary figures are computed by adjusting the BLS national median for each job by District of Columbia's state-level multiplier of 1.25× — a composite of state-level OEWS data and BEA Regional Price Parities. Last reviewed April 29, 2026.
Land a Higher-Paying Role in District of Columbia
CVCraft scans your resume against District of Columbia employers' ATS — free, 60 seconds.
Scan My Resume Free