BLS OEWS Data · 2025

Software Engineer Salary in Washington, DC

Based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Median Annual Salary
$158,200
vs. National Average
+16%
National: $136,620

Salary Range in Washington

Top 10%$246,000
75th Percentile$197,400
Median (50th)$158,200
25th Percentile$119,200
Bottom 10%$91,000

How Much Does a Software Engineer Make in Washington, DC?

The median Software Engineer salary in Washington, DC is $158,200 per year as of 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is 16% higher than the national median of $136,620.

Salaries in Washington range from $91,000 at the 10th percentile to $246,000 at the 90th percentile. The middle 50% of Software Engineers in Washington earn between $119,200 and $197,400 per year.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025. Occupation: Software Engineer (SOC 15-1252).

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Software Engineer make in Washington, DC?

The median Software Engineer salary in Washington, DC is $158,200 per year as of 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What is the salary range for a Software Engineer in Washington?

Software Engineer salaries in Washington range from $91,000 at the 10th percentile to $246,000 at the 90th percentile. The middle 50% earn between $119,200 and $197,400 per year.

Is Washington a good place to work as a Software Engineer?

Washington Software Engineer salaries are 16% higher than the national median. Washington is an above-average market for Software Engineers.

Where does the salary data come from?

All data comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey — the most comprehensive salary database in the United States, covering approximately 830 occupations across 600+ metropolitan areas.