Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers Salary in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
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In Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV, laundry and dry-cleaning workers earn a median annual salary of $35,420, which is approximately $1,620 higher than the national median for this occupation at $33,800. On an hourly basis, these workers make about $17.03, reflecting a consistent earning capacity within this regional cluster. When compared to the area's median household income of $123,896, it becomes evident that laundry and dry-cleaning workers earn significantly less than the typical household in the region. This disparity highlights the economic challenges faced by individuals in this occupation, as their earnings represent roughly 28.6% of the local median household income, underscoring a notable gap between service sector wages and overall regional income levels.
Salary variations within the laundry and dry-cleaning industry are evident when comparing entry-level to experienced workers. Those at the lower end of the pay scale earn around $29,220 annually (10th percentile), while more seasoned professionals might earn up to $42,860 (90th percentile). The median annual salary indicates a central tendency for earnings at $35,420, with individuals making between $31,660 (25th percentile) and $37,360 (75th percentile) representing the majority of workers in this field. The differences in pay are driven by factors such as experience, location-specific demand, employer size, and individual skill sets. More experienced workers often command higher wages due to accumulated knowledge, efficiency, and reliability, which can significantly contribute to their earning potential within this occupation.
Salary percentile breakdown
Washington economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers make per hour in Washington?
The median hourly wage for Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV is $17.03, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $20.41 or more per hour.
Is Washington above or below average for Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers salaries?
The median Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers salary in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV is 4.8% above the national median of $33,800. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers in Washington?
Entry-level Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Workers (10th percentile) earn around $29,220 per year in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $31,660.