Federal government, lobbying, defense, professional services. Here's how Surgeons 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) | $410,500 | $312,000 | $533,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $510,200 | $387,800 | $663,300 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $586,500 | $445,800 | $762,500 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $703,800 | $534,900 | $915,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $797,600 | $606,200 | $1,037,000 |
Highest-paying metros for Surgeons — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Washington metro economy.
The average Surgeon salary in the Washington metro is $586,500 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $445,800 to $762,500 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $967,800 or more.
Yes — Washington pays +0% relative to the Washington DC state median for Surgeons. 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 Surgeons — though cost of living in Washington is also typically elevated.
In Washington, the median Surgeon salary of $586,500 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Surgeons in Washington start around $410,500, while seniors (10+ years) reach $703,800 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.
Get my personal salary report →