Lawyers Salary in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV

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

Median annual salary $191,880 +26.9% vs national
Median hourly $92.25
10th percentile $102,360
90th percentile
Employed locally 48,170
National median $151,160

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    In Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV, the typical lawyer earns a median annual salary of $191,880, which translates to a median hourly wage of $92.25. This figure notably surpasses the national median for lawyers, which stands at $151,160. When compared to the local area's median household income of $123,896, it is evident that lawyers earn significantly more than the average household in this region. The disparity highlights the specialized skill set and education required in the legal profession, as well as the high demand for legal services within a major metropolitan hub like Washington, DC.

    The salary range for entry-level versus experienced lawyers demonstrates considerable variance driven by factors such as years of experience, specialization, and reputation within the field. Lawyers at the 10th percentile earn around $102,360 annually, while those in the 25th percentile make approximately $153,320 per year. Entry-level lawyers typically fall towards the lower end of this spectrum due to limited experience and often initial roles in smaller firms or public service positions. Conversely, experienced lawyers can command higher salaries by leveraging expertise, building client relationships, and possibly operating within prestigious law firms or specialized legal sectors. This progression underscores the importance of career advancement and specialization in achieving salary growth within the legal profession.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $102,360
    25th
    $153,320
    50th (median)
    $191,880

    Washington economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.00% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $123,896 2023 • Census ACS
    Lawyers salary vs area income 155% Median Lawyers salary is 55% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Lawyers make per hour in Washington?

    The median hourly wage for Lawyers in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV is $92.25, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $184.08 or more per hour.

    Is Washington above or below average for Lawyers salaries?

    The median Lawyers salary in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV is 26.9% above the national median of $151,160. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Lawyers in Washington?

    Entry-level Lawyers (10th percentile) earn around $102,360 per year in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $153,320.