How Registered Nurse (RN)s in Washington DC get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Washington DC compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $92,800 | $70,600 | $120,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $115,400 | $87,700 | $150,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $132,700 | $100,900 | $172,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $159,200 | $121,000 | $207,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $180,400 | $137,200 | $234,700 |
Pay varies sharply within Washington DC. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Washington DC |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | $132,700 | $100,900 | $172,600 | +0% |
Top occupations by median pay in Washington DC — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Washington DC
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Registered Nurse (RN) salary in Washington DC is $132,700 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $100,900 and the 75th at $172,600.
Pay-wise, Washington DC sits +40% above the national Registered Nurse (RN) median ($94,800). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Registered Nurse (RN)s (10–14 years of experience) in Washington DC earn around $159,200 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $180,400 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Washington DC ranks 2nd for Registered Nurse (RN) pay. The highest-paying state pays around $153,600 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
Get my personal salary report →