Federal government, lobbying, defense, professional services. Here's how Data Engineers 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) | $146,200 | $111,000 | $190,000 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $181,700 | $138,000 | $236,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $208,900 | $158,700 | $271,500 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $250,600 | $190,400 | $325,800 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $284,100 | $215,800 | $369,200 |
Highest-paying metros for Data Engineers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Washington metro economy.
The average Data Engineer salary in the Washington metro is $208,900 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $158,700 to $271,500 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $344,600 or more.
Yes — Washington pays +0% relative to the Washington DC state median for Data Engineers. 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 Data Engineers — though cost of living in Washington is also typically elevated.
In Washington, the median Data Engineer salary of $208,900 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Data Engineers in Washington start around $146,200, while seniors (10+ years) reach $250,600 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.
Get my personal salary report →