Federal government, lobbying, defense, professional services. Here's how Controllers 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) | $159,600 | $121,200 | $207,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $198,300 | $150,600 | $257,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $228,000 | $173,200 | $296,300 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $273,600 | $207,800 | $355,500 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $310,000 | $235,500 | $402,900 |
Highest-paying metros for Controllers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Washington metro economy.
The average Controller salary in the Washington metro is $228,000 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $173,200 to $296,300 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $376,100 or more.
Yes — Washington pays +0% relative to the Washington DC state median for Controllers. 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 Controllers — though cost of living in Washington is also typically elevated.
In Washington, the median Controller salary of $228,000 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Controllers in Washington start around $159,600, while seniors (10+ years) reach $273,600 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.
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