Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other Salary in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
Compare Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other salary & buying power
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In Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV, the typical Social Scientist and Related Workers earn a median annual salary of $137,610, which is significantly higher than both their national counterparts, who earn a median of $100,340 annually, and the local area's median household income of $123,896. This disparity highlights that individuals in this occupation generally earn more than what most households make in the region. The higher earnings reflect the specialized skills and expertise required in these roles, as well as the economic benefits associated with working in a metropolitan area known for its concentration of federal agencies, research institutions, and think tanks.
Entry-level Social Scientists and Related Workers typically start at around $82,760 annually, which represents the 10th percentile of earnings within this field. As professionals gain experience and advance in their careers, their earnings can increase substantially, reaching up to the 75th percentile at approximately $170,230 per year. The difference between entry-level and experienced workers is primarily driven by factors such as education level, years of professional experience, and specialization within social science disciplines. Advanced degrees and a strong track record of research or policy development often lead to higher compensation, reflecting the value placed on expertise in this occupation.
Salary percentile breakdown
Washington economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other make per hour in Washington?
The median hourly wage for Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV is $66.16, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $93.84 or more per hour.
Is Washington above or below average for Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other salaries?
The median Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other salary in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV is 37.1% above the national median of $100,340. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.
What is the entry-level salary for Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other in Washington?
Entry-level Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other (10th percentile) earn around $82,760 per year in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $110,700.