What is the median salary for Computer Programmers in Washington, D.C., District of Columbia?

According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Computer Programmers in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area is $103,580.

Does Washington, D.C. pay more than the District of Columbia state average for Computer Programmers?

The Washington, D.C. metro median is +25.4% versus the District of Columbia state median of $82,580.

How does Washington, D.C. compare to the national median for Computer Programmers?

The Washington, D.C. metro median is +5.1% versus the BLS national figure of $98,561.

What is the salary range for Computer Programmers in Washington, D.C.?

BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $65,120 and the 90th-percentile at $166,450 for the Washington, D.C. metro area.

What education is required for Computer Programmers?

BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Bachelor's degree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.

Computer Programmers Salary in Washington, D.C., District of Columbia

Median annual$103,580

Mean annual$112,670

Range (10th to 90th)$65,120 to $166,450

Washington, D.C., District of Columbia employment4,090

State vs national+5.1% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Washington, D.C. computer programmers fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)

The middle 50% of workers earn between $82,580 and $145,650, with a median of $103,580.

Typical entry

Education
Bachelor's degree
Experience
None
On-the-job training
None

Top skills (O*NET)

Computers and Electronics
Knowledge
4.9 / 5
Programming
Technical
4.8 / 5
Written Comprehension
Ability
4.0 / 5
Oral Comprehension
Ability
3.9 / 5
Near Vision
Ability
3.9 / 5
Critical Thinking
Cross-functional
3.8 / 5
Active Listening
Basic skill
3.8 / 5
Complex Problem Solving
Technical
3.8 / 5

Common tasks (O*NET)

01
Write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs, using workflow chart and diagram, and applying knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, and symbolic logic.
02
Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced.
03
Perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.
04
Write, update, and maintain computer programs or software packages to handle specific jobs such as tracking inventory, storing or retrieving data, or controlling other equipment.
05
Consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes.
06
Conduct trial runs of programs and software applications to be sure they will produce the desired information and that the instructions are correct.
07
Prepare detailed workflow charts and diagrams that describe input, output, and logical operation, and convert them into a series of instructions coded in a computer language.
08
Compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions, inserting comments in the coded instructions so others can understand the program.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Computer Programmers in Washington, D.C., District of Columbia?: According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Computer Programmers in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area is $103,580.
Does Washington, D.C. pay more than the District of Columbia state average for Computer Programmers?: The Washington, D.C. metro median is +25.4% versus the District of Columbia state median of $82,580.
How does Washington, D.C. compare to the national median for Computer Programmers?: The Washington, D.C. metro median is +5.1% versus the BLS national figure of $98,561.
What is the salary range for Computer Programmers in Washington, D.C.?: BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $65,120 and the 90th-percentile at $166,450 for the Washington, D.C. metro area.
What education is required for Computer Programmers?: BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Bachelor's degree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.

Disclaimer

Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the Washington, D.C. CBSA boundary for the reference year shown and may not match individual offers, employer-specific ranges, or current market conditions. Confirm with a licensed professional before making career or compensation decisions.