Civil Engineer Salary in Washington, DC
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 152.8
$100,370
Median Salary
$108,530
Mean Salary
$65,687
COL-Adjusted
8,280
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $66,780 | $43,704 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,220 | $53,809 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $100,370 | $65,687 |
| 75th Percentile | $129,460 | $84,725 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $162,060 | $106,060 |
What Drives the Range
The $95,280 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Civil Engineer 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 $100,370 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $65,687 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.