Lawyer Salary in Washington, DC
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Legal · COL Index: 152.8
$191,880
Median Salary
$219,400
Mean Salary
$125,576
COL-Adjusted
48,170
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $102,360 | $66,990 |
| 25th Percentile | $153,320 | $100,340 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $191,880 | $125,576 |
| 75th Percentile | $246,920 | $161,597 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $318,472 | $208,424 |
What Drives the Range
The $216,112 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Lawyer 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 $191,880 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $125,576 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.