Federal government, lobbying, defense, professional services. Here's how Physician Assistant (PA)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) | $140,400 | $106,700 | $182,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $174,600 | $132,600 | $226,900 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $200,700 | $152,500 | $260,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $240,800 | $183,000 | $313,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $272,900 | $207,400 | $354,800 |
Highest-paying metros for Physician Assistant (PA)s — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Washington metro economy.
The average Physician Assistant (PA) salary in the Washington metro is $200,700 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $152,500 to $260,900 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $331,100 or more.
Yes — Washington pays +0% relative to the Washington DC state median for Physician Assistant (PA)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 Physician Assistant (PA)s — though cost of living in Washington is also typically elevated.
In Washington, the median Physician Assistant (PA) salary of $200,700 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Physician Assistant (PA)s in Washington start around $140,400, while seniors (10+ years) reach $240,800 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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