Federal government, lobbying, defense, professional services. Here's how CEO (Mid-Market)s in Washington get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Washington metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $499,000 | $379,200 | $648,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $620,200 | $471,300 | $806,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $712,900 | $541,800 | $926,800 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $855,400 | $650,100 | $1,112,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $969,500 | $736,800 | $1,260,400 |
Highest-paying metros for CEO (Mid-Market)s — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Washington metro economy.
The average CEO (Mid-Market) salary in the Washington metro is $712,900 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $541,800 to $926,800 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $1,176,300 or more.
Yes — Washington pays +0% relative to the Washington DC state median for CEO (Mid-Market)s. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Washington vs. national: +40%. That puts Washington among the stronger US markets for CEO (Mid-Market)s — though cost of living in Washington is also typically elevated.
In Washington, the median CEO (Mid-Market) salary of $712,900 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level CEO (Mid-Market)s in Washington start around $499,000, while seniors (10+ years) reach $855,400 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
Get my personal salary report →