Federal government, lobbying, defense, professional services. Here's how Physician (MD/DO)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) | $264,700 | $201,100 | $344,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $329,000 | $250,000 | $427,600 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $378,200 | $287,400 | $491,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $453,800 | $344,800 | $589,900 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $514,300 | $390,800 | $668,500 |
Highest-paying metros for Physician (MD/DO)s — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Washington metro economy.
The average Physician (MD/DO) salary in the Washington metro is $378,200 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $287,400 to $491,600 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $624,000 or more.
Yes — Washington pays +0% relative to the Washington DC state median for Physician (MD/DO)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 (MD/DO)s — though cost of living in Washington is also typically elevated.
In Washington, the median Physician (MD/DO) salary of $378,200 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Physician (MD/DO)s in Washington start around $264,700, while seniors (10+ years) reach $453,800 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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