Paralegal Salary in Washington, DC
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Legal · COL Index: 152.8
$80,550
Median Salary
$86,540
Mean Salary
$52,716
COL-Adjusted
11,080
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $50,590 | $33,109 |
| 25th Percentile | $61,530 | $40,268 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $80,550 | $52,716 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,110 | $68,789 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $124,800 | $81,675 |
What Drives the Range
The $74,210 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Paralegal 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 $80,550 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $52,716 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.