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Political Scientists Salary in District of Columbia
Last updated: 2025 BLS data · Page refreshed:
How much do Political Scientists make in District of Columbia?
Last updated: 2025 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics
$152,530
Median Annual Salary
▼
-0.5% vs 2024
$154,300
Mean Salary
$152,530
Median Salary
$73.33
Hourly Rate
3,070 people work as Political Scientists in District of Columbia
Political Scientists salary by percentile in District of Columbia
BLS-reported salary distribution — from entry-level (10th percentile) to top earners (90th percentile).
Political Scientists in District of Columbia earn a median salary of $152,530 per year ($12,710/month).
This is 25.5% above the national average of $121,574.
District of Columbia ranks #2 out of 13 states for Political Scientists pay.
Approximately 3,070 people work in this occupation across District of Columbia.
Salaries decreased by 0.5% compared to 2024.
About This Job: Political Scientists
Study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. May study topics, such as public opinion, political decisionmaking, and ideology. May analyze the structure and operation of governments, as well as various political entities. May conduct public opinion surveys, analyze election results, or analyze public documents.
Top Skills
Reading Comprehension
4.25
Active Listening
4.12
Speaking
4.12
Active Learning
4.12
Writing
4.0
Key Knowledge Areas
Law and Government
4.65
English Language
4.42
Education and Training
4.27
History and Archeology
3.42
Mathematics
3.38
Typical Education: Doctoral Degree
(88.5% of workers)
Salary Range: Political Scientists in District of Columbia
Salaries for Political Scientists in District of Columbia range from $114,920 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $195,190 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $128,610 and $180,480.
How much do Political Scientists make in District of Columbia?
The median annual salary for Political Scientists in District of Columbia is $152,530 as of 2025. The average (mean) salary is $154,300.
What is the salary range for a Political Scientists in District of Columbia?
Salaries for Political Scientists in District of Columbia range from $114,920 at the 10th percentile to $195,190 at the 90th percentile. The middle 50% earn between $128,610 and $180,480.
What is the starting salary for a Political Scientists in District of Columbia?
Entry-level Political Scientists positions in District of Columbia typically start around $114,920 (10th percentile). With some experience, salaries rise to $128,610 (25th percentile).
How many people work as Political Scientists in District of Columbia?
According to 2025 BLS data, approximately 3,070 people are employed as Political Scientists in District of Columbia.
What is the hourly rate for a Political Scientists in District of Columbia?
Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, the median hourly rate for a Political Scientists in District of Columbia is approximately $73.33 per hour.
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2025 estimates. The OEWS survey covers approximately 1.1 million establishments nationwide.
Annual salaries are calculated based on a standard 2,080-hour work year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, employer, and local market conditions. Figures do not include benefits, bonuses, or overtime pay.
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