Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers Salary in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV

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

Median annual salary $35,890 +6.4% vs national
Median hourly $17.26
10th percentile $28,660
90th percentile $55,100
Employed locally 3,580
National median $33,720

Compare Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers salary & buying power

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    In the Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV area, lifeguards, ski patrol members, and other recreational protective service workers have a median annual salary of $35,890, which is slightly above the national median of $33,720. This translates to a median hourly wage of $17.26. When compared to the local median household income of $123,896, it becomes evident that these workers typically earn less than what an average household in the area does. The 10th percentile salary stands at $28,660 while those at the 25th percentile make around $32,150. On the higher end, individuals at the 75th percentile earn approximately $41,600 annually, and those at the 90th percentile can take home up to $55,100.

    For entry-level workers in this field within the Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV area, earnings often start near or below the median salary of $35,890. These initial positions typically offer salaries closer to the lower end of the range, around the 10th percentile mark of $28,660. In contrast, experienced workers who have advanced in their roles and perhaps gained additional certifications or responsibilities may earn significantly more, approaching or exceeding the 75th percentile salary of $41,600. The disparity in earnings between entry-level and seasoned professionals can be attributed to factors such as accumulated experience, specialized skills, leadership roles within a team, and the ability to handle complex situations effectively, which are all highly valued traits in this profession.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $28,660
    25th
    $32,150
    50th (median)
    $35,890
    75th
    $41,600
    90th
    $55,100

    Washington economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.00% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $123,896 2023 • Census ACS
    Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers salary vs area income 29% Median Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers salary is 71% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers make per hour in Washington?

    The median hourly wage for Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV is $17.26, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $21.16 or more per hour.

    Is Washington above or below average for Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers salaries?

    The median Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers salary in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV is 6.4% above the national median of $33,720. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers in Washington?

    Entry-level Lifeguards, Ski Patrol, and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers (10th percentile) earn around $28,660 per year in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $32,150.