Construction and Building Inspectors Salary in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV

Median annual salary $78,200 +8.4% vs national
Median hourly $37.60
10th percentile $54,630
90th percentile $109,120
Employed locally 3,540
National median $72,120

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    In Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV, Construction and Building Inspectors earn a median annual salary of $78,200, or $37.60 per hour, which is higher than the national median salary for this occupation at $72,120. This positions them favorably in the local economy where the area's median household income stands at $123,896. While their earnings are below the median household income, they represent a significant portion of it, reflecting the specialized skills and responsibilities associated with ensuring construction projects comply with building codes and regulations. With an estimated employment figure of 3,540, this role plays a crucial part in maintaining safety standards across the region, which experiences a low local unemployment rate of 3.00%.

    The salary range for Construction and Building Inspectors varies significantly based on experience level. Entry-level workers typically earn around $54,630, which is at the 10th percentile, while those with more experience can reach salaries up to $109,120 at the 90th percentile. The 25th percentile earners make approximately $64,110, and experienced professionals at the 75th percentile earn about $99,310 annually. This variation in earnings is driven by factors such as years of experience, expertise in specific inspection areas, regional demand for inspectors, and additional certifications or qualifications that enhance an inspector's capability to manage complex projects or assume supervisory roles. As construction regulations evolve and urban development continues to expand in the region, experienced inspectors with a proven track record can command higher salaries due to their invaluable contributions to ensuring compliance and safety.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $54,630
    25th
    $64,110
    50th (median)
    $78,200
    75th
    $99,310
    90th
    $109,120

    Washington economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.00% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $123,896 2023 • Census ACS
    Construction and Building Inspectors salary vs area income 63% Median Construction and Building Inspectors salary is 37% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Construction and Building Inspectors make per hour in Washington?

    The median hourly wage for Construction and Building Inspectors in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV is $37.60, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $56.01 or more per hour.

    Is Washington above or below average for Construction and Building Inspectors salaries?

    The median Construction and Building Inspectors salary in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV is 8.4% above the national median of $72,120. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Construction and Building Inspectors in Washington?

    Entry-level Construction and Building Inspectors (10th percentile) earn around $54,630 per year in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $64,110.