Registered Nurse Salary in Washington, DC
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Healthcare · COL Index: 152.8
$101,800
Median Salary
$102,510
Mean Salary
$66,623
COL-Adjusted
43,640
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $79,460 | $52,003 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,570 | $54,692 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $101,800 | $66,623 |
| 75th Percentile | $110,760 | $72,487 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $129,320 | $84,634 |
What Drives the Range
The $49,860 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Registered Nurse 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 $101,800 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $66,623 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.