Electrical Engineer Salary in Washington, DC
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Engineering · COL Index: 152.8
$136,820
Median Salary
$139,850
Mean Salary
$89,542
COL-Adjusted
3,660
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $88,540 | $57,945 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,920 | $68,665 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $136,820 | $89,542 |
| 75th Percentile | $168,470 | $110,255 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $191,880 | $125,576 |
What Drives the Range
The $103,340 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Electrical 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 $136,820 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $89,542 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.