2024 wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Atmospheric and Space Scientists is a high-paying occupation in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV, with a median annual salary of $128,940. Atmospheric and Space Scientistss in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV earn $31,490 more (32%) than the national median of $97,450. Experienced Atmospheric and Space Scientistss can expect to roughly double their starting salary over their career.
Atmospheric and Space Scientistss in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV earn $31,490 more (32%) than the national median of $97,450.
Only 590 Atmospheric and Space Scientistss work in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV. Consider nearby metro areas for more opportunities.
Cost of Living Consideration
While Washington, DC-VA-MD-WV offers higher pay, remember that cost of living may also be higher. A $128,940 salary here may not go as far as $97,450 in a lower-cost area. Consider housing, taxes, and commute costs.
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $79,660 | $6,638 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,470 | $8,539 |
| Median | $128,940 | $10,745 |
| 75th Percentile | $157,980 | $13,165 |
| 90th Percentile | $181,210 | $15,101 |
| Mean (Average) | $131,840 | $10,987 |
| Metro Area | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Berkeley, CA | $141,370 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX | $132,850 |
| Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV | $128,940 |
| Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA | $121,600 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI | $119,270 |
| St. Louis, MO-IL | $115,750 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin, TN | $113,030 |
| Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO | $112,780 |
| Kansas City, MO-KS | $112,030 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom, CA | $108,950 |
| Occupation | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $224,330 |
| Lawyers | $191,880 |
| Nuclear Engineers | $189,770 |
| Database Administrators | $188,120 |
| Architectural and Engineering Managers | $180,360 |
| Financial Managers | $177,690 |
| Marketing Managers | $176,240 |
| Human Resources Managers | $172,970 |
| Physicists | $168,280 |
| Managers, All Other | $167,270 |
Estimate your after-tax income. Compare your real purchasing power across different states and salary levels.
Annual Take-Home
$98,592
Monthly
$8,216
Bi-Weekly
$3,792
Effective Tax Rate
23.5%
* Estimate only. Does not include local taxes, deductions, or credits. Need help with your finances? Consider consulting a certified financial planner or exploring high-yield savings accounts to maximize your take-home pay.
The cost of living in Washington, DC is 8.9% above the national average (index: 108.9). See full cost breakdown →
After adjusting for local cost of living, the purchasing power of Washington, DC salaries is equivalent to $91,018 in an average-cost US city.
Data verified March 2026 · Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
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Considering a move for this role? Compare cost of living in Washington, DC-VA-MD-WVto make an informed decision. Don't forget to factor in moving costs, renters insurance, and state income tax differences when evaluating your total compensation package.