Accountant Salary in Washington, DC
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Finance · COL Index: 152.8
$99,440
Median Salary
$108,670
Mean Salary
$65,079
COL-Adjusted
42,320
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $64,490 | $42,205 |
| 25th Percentile | $77,790 | $50,910 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $99,440 | $65,079 |
| 75th Percentile | $129,750 | $84,915 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $167,270 | $109,470 |
What Drives the Range
The $102,780 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Accountant positions in Washington, DC reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
Washington, DC's cost-of-living index of 152.8 means that a $99,440 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $65,079 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, this metro area offers a deep talent pool and typically higher total compensation when including equity and bonuses.