Highest-paying jobs in Washington, D.C.
Written by:
April 12, 2021
Maurizio Pesce // flickr
Highest-paying jobs in Washington
Stacker collected information on the highest-paying jobs in Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV, using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Jobs are ranked by average annual salary with information up to date as of May 2020. Job descriptions are from O*NET.
In Washington, the annual mean wage is $77,210 or 37.1% higher than national mean of $56,310, while the highest-paying occupation makes $283,200. Read on to see which jobs make the list.
1 / 50
Gorodenkoff // Shutterstock
#50. Computer science teachers, postsecondary
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $130,690
- #8 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,090
National
- Annual mean salary: $98,680
- Employment: 32,230
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA ($153,430)
--- College Station-Bryan, TX ($150,480)
--- San Diego-Carlsbad, CA ($143,650)
- Job description: Teach courses in computer science. May specialize in a field of computer science, such as the design and function of computers or operations and research analysis. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
- Annual mean salary: $130,690
- #8 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,090
National
- Annual mean salary: $98,680
- Employment: 32,230
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA ($153,430)
--- College Station-Bryan, TX ($150,480)
--- San Diego-Carlsbad, CA ($143,650)
- Job description: Teach courses in computer science. May specialize in a field of computer science, such as the design and function of computers or operations and research analysis. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
2 / 50
Chatham House // Flickr
#49. Political scientists
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $130,790
- #3 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 4,090
National
- Annual mean salary: $124,100
- Employment: 6,010
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD ($156,110)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($131,110)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($130,790)
- Job description: 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.
- Annual mean salary: $130,790
- #3 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 4,090
National
- Annual mean salary: $124,100
- Employment: 6,010
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD ($156,110)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($131,110)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($130,790)
- Job description: 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.
3 / 50
aslysun // Shutterstock
#48. Chemists
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $130,860
- #2 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,780
National
- Annual mean salary: $86,410
- Employment: 82,940
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Peoria, IL ($134,990)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($130,860)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($122,250)
- Job description: Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.
- Annual mean salary: $130,860
- #2 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,780
National
- Annual mean salary: $86,410
- Employment: 82,940
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Peoria, IL ($134,990)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($130,860)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($122,250)
- Job description: Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.
4 / 50
abriendomundo // Shutterstock
#47. Astronomers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $132,870
- #4 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 420
National
- Annual mean salary: $126,250
- Employment: 1,910
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA ($201,920)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($174,950)
--- Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX ($133,080)
- Job description: Observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.
- Annual mean salary: $132,870
- #4 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 420
National
- Annual mean salary: $126,250
- Employment: 1,910
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA ($201,920)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($174,950)
--- Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX ($133,080)
- Job description: Observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.
5 / 50
Burben // Shutterstock
#46. Air traffic controllers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $133,430
- #17 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,440
National
- Annual mean salary: $127,440
- Employment: 22,190
- Entry level education requirements: Associate’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Sacramento--Roseville--Arden-Arcade, CA ($157,220)
--- Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI ($155,420)
--- Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA ($152,840)
- Job description: Control air traffic on and within vicinity of airport, and movement of air traffic between altitude sectors and control centers, according to established procedures and policies. Authorize, regulate, and control commercial airline flights according to government or company regulations to expedite and ensure flight safety.
- Annual mean salary: $133,430
- #17 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,440
National
- Annual mean salary: $127,440
- Employment: 22,190
- Entry level education requirements: Associate’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Sacramento--Roseville--Arden-Arcade, CA ($157,220)
--- Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI ($155,420)
--- Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA ($152,840)
- Job description: Control air traffic on and within vicinity of airport, and movement of air traffic between altitude sectors and control centers, according to established procedures and policies. Authorize, regulate, and control commercial airline flights according to government or company regulations to expedite and ensure flight safety.
6 / 50
Canva
#45. Materials engineers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $134,530
- #1 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 510
National
- Annual mean salary: $100,550
- Employment: 24,740
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($134,530)
--- Boulder, CO ($131,510)
--- Albuquerque, NM ($130,470)
- Job description: Evaluate materials and develop machinery and processes to manufacture materials for use in products that must meet specialized design and performance specifications. Develop new uses for known materials. Includes those engineers working with composite materials or specializing in one type of material, such as graphite, metal and metal alloys, ceramics and glass, plastics and polymers, and naturally occurring materials. Includes metallurgists and metallurgical engineers, ceramic engineers, and welding engineers.
- Annual mean salary: $134,530
- #1 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 510
National
- Annual mean salary: $100,550
- Employment: 24,740
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($134,530)
--- Boulder, CO ($131,510)
--- Albuquerque, NM ($130,470)
- Job description: Evaluate materials and develop machinery and processes to manufacture materials for use in products that must meet specialized design and performance specifications. Develop new uses for known materials. Includes those engineers working with composite materials or specializing in one type of material, such as graphite, metal and metal alloys, ceramics and glass, plastics and polymers, and naturally occurring materials. Includes metallurgists and metallurgical engineers, ceramic engineers, and welding engineers.
7 / 50
Jacob Lund // Shutterstock
#44. Physics teachers, postsecondary
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $135,810
- #4 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 350
National
- Annual mean salary: $101,290
- Employment: 13,670
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Rochester, NY ($160,370)
--- College Station-Bryan, TX ($148,480)
--- San Diego-Carlsbad, CA ($141,180)
- Job description: Teach courses pertaining to the laws of matter and energy. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
- Annual mean salary: $135,810
- #4 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 350
National
- Annual mean salary: $101,290
- Employment: 13,670
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Rochester, NY ($160,370)
--- College Station-Bryan, TX ($148,480)
--- San Diego-Carlsbad, CA ($141,180)
- Job description: Teach courses pertaining to the laws of matter and energy. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
8 / 50
Kzenon // Shutterstock
#43. Optometrists
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $135,980
- #47 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 590
National
- Annual mean salary: $125,440
- Employment: 36,690
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Columbia, SC ($228,340)
--- New Haven, CT ($186,950)
--- Evansville, IN-KY ($182,980)
- Job description: Diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases of the human eye and visual system. Examine eyes and visual system, diagnose problems or impairments, prescribe corrective lenses, and provide treatment. May prescribe therapeutic drugs to treat specific eye conditions.
- Annual mean salary: $135,980
- #47 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 590
National
- Annual mean salary: $125,440
- Employment: 36,690
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Columbia, SC ($228,340)
--- New Haven, CT ($186,950)
--- Evansville, IN-KY ($182,980)
- Job description: Diagnose, manage, and treat conditions and diseases of the human eye and visual system. Examine eyes and visual system, diagnose problems or impairments, prescribe corrective lenses, and provide treatment. May prescribe therapeutic drugs to treat specific eye conditions.
9 / 50
IBM Research // Flickr
#42. Computer network architects
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $136,390
- #5 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 9,270
National
- Annual mean salary: $119,230
- Employment: 159,350
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($161,950)
--- Dover-Durham, NH-ME ($152,060)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($148,250)
- Job description: Design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. Perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.
- Annual mean salary: $136,390
- #5 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 9,270
National
- Annual mean salary: $119,230
- Employment: 159,350
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($161,950)
--- Dover-Durham, NH-ME ($152,060)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($148,250)
- Job description: Design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. Perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.
10 / 50
S√∏ren Fuglede J√∏rgensen // Wikimedia Commons
#41. Mathematicians
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $138,160
- #1 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 230
National
- Annual mean salary: $112,530
- Employment: 2,460
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($138,160)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($135,980)
--- Trenton, NJ ($131,570)
- Job description: Conduct research in fundamental mathematics or in application of mathematical techniques to science, management, and other fields. Solve problems in various fields using mathematical methods.
- Annual mean salary: $138,160
- #1 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 230
National
- Annual mean salary: $112,530
- Employment: 2,460
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($138,160)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($135,980)
--- Trenton, NJ ($131,570)
- Job description: Conduct research in fundamental mathematics or in application of mathematical techniques to science, management, and other fields. Solve problems in various fields using mathematical methods.
11 / 50
Monkey Business Images // Shutterstock
#40. Medical and health services managers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $138,260
- #22 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 9,400
National
- Annual mean salary: $118,800
- Employment: 402,540
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Vallejo-Fairfield, CA ($174,010)
--- Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA ($171,430)
--- Madera, CA ($168,090)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate medical and health services in hospitals, clinics, managed care organizations, public health agencies, or similar organizations.
- Annual mean salary: $138,260
- #22 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 9,400
National
- Annual mean salary: $118,800
- Employment: 402,540
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Vallejo-Fairfield, CA ($174,010)
--- Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA ($171,430)
--- Madera, CA ($168,090)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate medical and health services in hospitals, clinics, managed care organizations, public health agencies, or similar organizations.
12 / 50
Canva
#39. Health specialties teachers, postsecondary
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $139,860
- #19 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,030
National
- Annual mean salary: $124,890
- Employment: 200,040
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT ($211,500)
--- Jackson, MS ($195,830)
--- Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA ($176,930)
- Job description: Teach courses in health specialties, in fields such as dentistry, laboratory technology, medicine, pharmacy, public health, therapy, and veterinary medicine.
- Annual mean salary: $139,860
- #19 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,030
National
- Annual mean salary: $124,890
- Employment: 200,040
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT ($211,500)
--- Jackson, MS ($195,830)
--- Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA ($176,930)
- Job description: Teach courses in health specialties, in fields such as dentistry, laboratory technology, medicine, pharmacy, public health, therapy, and veterinary medicine.
13 / 50
indukas // Shutterstock
#38. Physicists
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $140,070
- #13 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,790
National
- Annual mean salary: $137,700
- Employment: 16,160
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT ($170,690)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($164,420)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($159,290)
- Job description: Conduct research into physical phenomena, develop theories on the basis of observation and experiments, and devise methods to apply physical laws and theories.
- Annual mean salary: $140,070
- #13 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,790
National
- Annual mean salary: $137,700
- Employment: 16,160
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT ($170,690)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($164,420)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($159,290)
- Job description: Conduct research into physical phenomena, develop theories on the basis of observation and experiments, and devise methods to apply physical laws and theories.
14 / 50
Sunshine Seeds // Shutterstock
#37. Industrial production managers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $141,800
- #19 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 690
National
- Annual mean salary: $118,190
- Employment: 179,570
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New Orleans-Metairie, LA ($171,890)
--- Florence, SC ($167,660)
--- Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA ($155,320)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the work activities and resources necessary for manufacturing products in accordance with cost, quality, and quantity specifications.
- Annual mean salary: $141,800
- #19 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 690
National
- Annual mean salary: $118,190
- Employment: 179,570
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New Orleans-Metairie, LA ($171,890)
--- Florence, SC ($167,660)
--- Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA ($155,320)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the work activities and resources necessary for manufacturing products in accordance with cost, quality, and quantity specifications.
15 / 50
GaudiLab // Shutterstock
#36. Engineering teachers, postsecondary
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $142,380
- #2 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 690
National
- Annual mean salary: $114,130
- Employment: 38,520
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- College Station-Bryan, TX ($162,430)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($142,380)
--- Austin-Round Rock, TX ($141,860)
- Job description: Teach courses pertaining to the application of physical laws and principles of engineering for the development of machines, materials, instruments, processes, and services. Includes teachers of subjects such as chemical, civil, electrical, industrial, mechanical, mineral, and petroleum engineering. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
- Annual mean salary: $142,380
- #2 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 690
National
- Annual mean salary: $114,130
- Employment: 38,520
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- College Station-Bryan, TX ($162,430)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($142,380)
--- Austin-Round Rock, TX ($141,860)
- Job description: Teach courses pertaining to the application of physical laws and principles of engineering for the development of machines, materials, instruments, processes, and services. Includes teachers of subjects such as chemical, civil, electrical, industrial, mechanical, mineral, and petroleum engineering. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
16 / 50
Petekub // Shutterstock
#35. Economists
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $142,580
- #3 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 6,700
National
- Annual mean salary: $120,880
- Employment: 17,520
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($153,610)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($148,980)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($142,580)
- Job description: Conduct research, prepare reports, or formulate plans to address economic problems related to the production and distribution of goods and services or monetary and fiscal policy. May collect and process economic and statistical data using sampling techniques and econometric methods.
- Annual mean salary: $142,580
- #3 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 6,700
National
- Annual mean salary: $120,880
- Employment: 17,520
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($153,610)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($148,980)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($142,580)
- Job description: Conduct research, prepare reports, or formulate plans to address economic problems related to the production and distribution of goods and services or monetary and fiscal policy. May collect and process economic and statistical data using sampling techniques and econometric methods.
17 / 50
Syda Productions // Shutterstock
#34. Economics teachers, postsecondary
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $143,850
- #10 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 360
National
- Annual mean salary: $123,720
- Employment: 13,080
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Providence-Warwick, RI-MA ($180,450)
--- Rochester, NY ($175,010)
--- Pittsburgh, PA ($171,450)
- Job description: Teach courses in economics. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
- Annual mean salary: $143,850
- #10 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 360
National
- Annual mean salary: $123,720
- Employment: 13,080
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Providence-Warwick, RI-MA ($180,450)
--- Rochester, NY ($175,010)
--- Pittsburgh, PA ($171,450)
- Job description: Teach courses in economics. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
18 / 50
NNSA // Flickr
#33. Law teachers, postsecondary
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $144,610
- #7 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 900
National
- Annual mean salary: $134,760
- Employment: 14,930
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin, TN ($190,320)
--- Omaha-Council Bluffs, NE-IA ($180,020)
--- Tallahassee, FL ($164,590)
- Job description: Teach courses in law. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
- Annual mean salary: $144,610
- #7 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 900
National
- Annual mean salary: $134,760
- Employment: 14,930
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin, TN ($190,320)
--- Omaha-Council Bluffs, NE-IA ($180,020)
--- Tallahassee, FL ($164,590)
- Job description: Teach courses in law. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
19 / 50
Gorodenkoff // Shutterstock
#32. Computer and information research scientists
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $146,440
- #5 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 3,470
National
- Annual mean salary: $130,890
- Employment: 30,220
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($170,890)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($163,330)
--- Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA ($150,090)
- Job description: Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.
- Annual mean salary: $146,440
- #5 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 3,470
National
- Annual mean salary: $130,890
- Employment: 30,220
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($170,890)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($163,330)
--- Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA ($150,090)
- Job description: Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.
20 / 50
Austin Community College // Flickr
#31. Veterinarians
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $146,900
- #7 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,520
National
- Annual mean salary: $108,350
- Employment: 73,710
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX ($169,220)
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($150,370)
--- Akron, OH ($150,330)
- Job description: Diagnose, treat, or research diseases and injuries of animals. Includes veterinarians who conduct research and development, inspect livestock, or care for pets and companion animals.
- Annual mean salary: $146,900
- #7 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,520
National
- Annual mean salary: $108,350
- Employment: 73,710
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX ($169,220)
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($150,370)
--- Akron, OH ($150,330)
- Job description: Diagnose, treat, or research diseases and injuries of animals. Includes veterinarians who conduct research and development, inspect livestock, or care for pets and companion animals.
21 / 50
rawpixel.com // Shutterstock
#30. Training and development managers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $148,800
- #12 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,290
National
- Annual mean salary: $125,920
- Employment: 38,710
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($178,590)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($167,570)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($166,750)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the training and development activities and staff of an organization.
- Annual mean salary: $148,800
- #12 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,290
National
- Annual mean salary: $125,920
- Employment: 38,710
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($178,590)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($167,570)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($166,750)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the training and development activities and staff of an organization.
22 / 50
rawpixel.com // Shutterstock
#29. Purchasing managers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $150,520
- #15 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 4,200
National
- Annual mean salary: $132,660
- Employment: 70,960
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO ($181,240)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($172,300)
--- Morgantown, WV ($167,740)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of buyers, purchasing officers, and related workers involved in purchasing materials, products, and services. Includes wholesale or retail trade merchandising managers and procurement managers.
- Annual mean salary: $150,520
- #15 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 4,200
National
- Annual mean salary: $132,660
- Employment: 70,960
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO ($181,240)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($172,300)
--- Morgantown, WV ($167,740)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of buyers, purchasing officers, and related workers involved in purchasing materials, products, and services. Includes wholesale or retail trade merchandising managers and procurement managers.
23 / 50
IBM Research // Flickr
#28. Aerospace engineers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $151,410
- #1 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,310
National
- Annual mean salary: $121,110
- Employment: 60,630
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($151,410)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($142,260)
--- Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX ($135,490)
- Job description: Perform engineering duties in designing, constructing, and testing aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft. May conduct basic and applied research to evaluate adaptability of materials and equipment to aircraft design and manufacture. May recommend improvements in testing equipment and techniques.
- Annual mean salary: $151,410
- #1 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,310
National
- Annual mean salary: $121,110
- Employment: 60,630
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($151,410)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($142,260)
--- Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX ($135,490)
- Job description: Perform engineering duties in designing, constructing, and testing aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft. May conduct basic and applied research to evaluate adaptability of materials and equipment to aircraft design and manufacture. May recommend improvements in testing equipment and techniques.
24 / 50
Pixabay
#27. Compensation and benefits managers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $151,720
- #12 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 440
National
- Annual mean salary: $137,160
- Employment: 16,340
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($194,810)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($184,050)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($180,840)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate compensation and benefits activities of an organization.
- Annual mean salary: $151,720
- #12 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 440
National
- Annual mean salary: $137,160
- Employment: 16,340
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($194,810)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($184,050)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($180,840)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate compensation and benefits activities of an organization.
25 / 50
NTNU // Flickr
#26. Natural sciences managers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $151,870
- #25 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 4,930
National
- Annual mean salary: $154,930
- Employment: 75,870
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($221,460)
--- Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO ($214,020)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($205,120)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields.
- Annual mean salary: $151,870
- #25 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 4,930
National
- Annual mean salary: $154,930
- Employment: 75,870
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($221,460)
--- Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, AR-MO ($214,020)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($205,120)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, statistics, and research and development in these fields.
26 / 50
TaLaNoVa // Shutterstock
#25. Sales engineers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $152,530
- #5 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,120
National
- Annual mean salary: $117,270
- Employment: 63,780
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Durham-Chapel Hill, NC ($163,860)
--- Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI ($158,140)
--- Dover-Durham, NH-ME ($155,490)
- Job description: Sell business goods or services, the selling of which requires a technical background equivalent to a baccalaureate degree in engineering.
- Annual mean salary: $152,530
- #5 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,120
National
- Annual mean salary: $117,270
- Employment: 63,780
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Durham-Chapel Hill, NC ($163,860)
--- Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI ($158,140)
--- Dover-Durham, NH-ME ($155,490)
- Job description: Sell business goods or services, the selling of which requires a technical background equivalent to a baccalaureate degree in engineering.
27 / 50
Pixabay
#24. General and operations managers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $155,750
- #8 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 73,250
National
- Annual mean salary: $125,740
- Employment: 2,347,420
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($183,170)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($175,990)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($172,370)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of public or private sector organizations, overseeing multiple departments or locations. Duties and responsibilities include formulating policies, managing daily operations, and planning the use of materials and human resources, but are too diverse and general in nature to be classified in any one functional area of management or administration, such as personnel, purchasing, or administrative services. Usually manage through subordinate supervisors. Excludes First-Line Supervisors.
- Annual mean salary: $155,750
- #8 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 73,250
National
- Annual mean salary: $125,740
- Employment: 2,347,420
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($183,170)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($175,990)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($172,370)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of public or private sector organizations, overseeing multiple departments or locations. Duties and responsibilities include formulating policies, managing daily operations, and planning the use of materials and human resources, but are too diverse and general in nature to be classified in any one functional area of management or administration, such as personnel, purchasing, or administrative services. Usually manage through subordinate supervisors. Excludes First-Line Supervisors.
28 / 50
Pixabay
#23. Architectural and engineering managers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $159,720
- #53 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 5,110
National
- Annual mean salary: $158,100
- Employment: 195,900
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($226,920)
--- Amarillo, TX ($199,940)
--- Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island, FL ($198,610)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as architecture and engineering or research and development in these fields.
- Annual mean salary: $159,720
- #53 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 5,110
National
- Annual mean salary: $158,100
- Employment: 195,900
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($226,920)
--- Amarillo, TX ($199,940)
--- Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island, FL ($198,610)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as architecture and engineering or research and development in these fields.
29 / 50
Jacob Lund // Shutterstock
#22. Human resources managers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $160,030
- #5 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 4,870
National
- Annual mean salary: $134,580
- Employment: 156,600
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($194,040)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($183,890)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($179,870)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate human resources activities and staff of an organization.
- Annual mean salary: $160,030
- #5 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 4,870
National
- Annual mean salary: $134,580
- Employment: 156,600
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($194,040)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($183,890)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($179,870)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate human resources activities and staff of an organization.
30 / 50
fizkes // Shutterstock
#21. Industrial-organizational psychologists
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $172,770
- #1 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 100
National
- Annual mean salary: $112,690
- Employment: 780
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay: data not available
- Job description: Apply principles of psychology to human resources, administration, management, sales, and marketing problems. Activities may include policy planning; employee testing and selection, training, and development; and organizational development and analysis. May work with management to organize the work setting to improve worker productivity.
- Annual mean salary: $172,770
- #1 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 100
National
- Annual mean salary: $112,690
- Employment: 780
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay: data not available
- Job description: Apply principles of psychology to human resources, administration, management, sales, and marketing problems. Activities may include policy planning; employee testing and selection, training, and development; and organizational development and analysis. May work with management to organize the work setting to improve worker productivity.
31 / 50
Canva
#20. Pediatricians, general
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $173,990
- #47 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,020
National
- Annual mean salary: $184,570
- Employment: 27,550
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA ($280,860)
--- State College, PA ($275,730)
--- Salt Lake City, UT ($275,610)
- Job description: Diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and injuries in children. May refer patients to specialists for further diagnosis or treatment, as needed.
- Annual mean salary: $173,990
- #47 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,020
National
- Annual mean salary: $184,570
- Employment: 27,550
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA ($280,860)
--- State College, PA ($275,730)
--- Salt Lake City, UT ($275,610)
- Job description: Diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and injuries in children. May refer patients to specialists for further diagnosis or treatment, as needed.
32 / 50
Canva
#19. Sales managers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $174,080
- #6 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 6,680
National
- Annual mean salary: $147,580
- Employment: 390,170
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($207,070)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($202,700)
--- Trenton, NJ ($186,960)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the actual distribution or movement of a product or service to the customer. Coordinate sales distribution by establishing sales territories, quotas, and goals and establish training programs for sales representatives. Analyze sales statistics gathered by staff to determine sales potential and inventory requirements and monitor the preferences of customers.
- Annual mean salary: $174,080
- #6 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 6,680
National
- Annual mean salary: $147,580
- Employment: 390,170
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($207,070)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($202,700)
--- Trenton, NJ ($186,960)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate the actual distribution or movement of a product or service to the customer. Coordinate sales distribution by establishing sales territories, quotas, and goals and establish training programs for sales representatives. Analyze sales statistics gathered by staff to determine sales potential and inventory requirements and monitor the preferences of customers.
33 / 50
TopRank Online Marketing // Flickr
#18. Marketing managers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $175,860
- #12 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 7,750
National
- Annual mean salary: $154,470
- Employment: 270,200
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA ($213,180)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($211,210)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($196,260)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate marketing policies and programs, such as determining the demand for products and services offered by a firm and its competitors, and identify potential customers. Develop pricing strategies with the goal of maximizing the firm's profits or share of the market while ensuring the firm's customers are satisfied. Oversee product development or monitor trends that indicate the need for new products and services.
- Annual mean salary: $175,860
- #12 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 7,750
National
- Annual mean salary: $154,470
- Employment: 270,200
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA ($213,180)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($211,210)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($196,260)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate marketing policies and programs, such as determining the demand for products and services offered by a firm and its competitors, and identify potential customers. Develop pricing strategies with the goal of maximizing the firm's profits or share of the market while ensuring the firm's customers are satisfied. Oversee product development or monitor trends that indicate the need for new products and services.
34 / 50
Canva
#17. Financial managers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $177,140
- #7 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 21,120
National
- Annual mean salary: $151,510
- Employment: 653,080
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($214,670)
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($210,180)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($192,310)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate accounting, investing, banking, insurance, securities, and other financial activities of a branch, office, or department of an establishment.
- Annual mean salary: $177,140
- #7 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 21,120
National
- Annual mean salary: $151,510
- Employment: 653,080
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($214,670)
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($210,180)
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($192,310)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate accounting, investing, banking, insurance, securities, and other financial activities of a branch, office, or department of an establishment.
35 / 50
Almonroth // Wikimedia Commons
#16. Computer and information systems managers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $177,840
- #9 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 19,130
National
- Annual mean salary: $161,730
- Employment: 457,290
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($235,040)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($212,480)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($201,320)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.
- Annual mean salary: $177,840
- #9 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 19,130
National
- Annual mean salary: $161,730
- Employment: 457,290
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($235,040)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($212,480)
--- New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA ($201,320)
- Job description: Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.
36 / 50
Canva
#15. Nurse anesthetists
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $178,050
- #55 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 750
National
- Annual mean salary: $189,190
- Employment: 41,960
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Duluth, MN-WI ($271,940)
--- Ann Arbor, MI ($262,890)
--- Green Bay, WI ($239,140)
- Job description: Administer anesthesia, monitor patient's vital signs, and oversee patient recovery from anesthesia. May assist anesthesiologists, surgeons, other physicians, or dentists. Must be registered nurses who have specialized graduate education.
- Annual mean salary: $178,050
- #55 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 750
National
- Annual mean salary: $189,190
- Employment: 41,960
- Entry level education requirements: Master’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Duluth, MN-WI ($271,940)
--- Ann Arbor, MI ($262,890)
--- Green Bay, WI ($239,140)
- Job description: Administer anesthesia, monitor patient's vital signs, and oversee patient recovery from anesthesia. May assist anesthesiologists, surgeons, other physicians, or dentists. Must be registered nurses who have specialized graduate education.
37 / 50
Sebastian Duda // Shutterstock
#14. Judges, magistrate judges, and magistrates
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $179,150
- #6 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 150
National
- Annual mean salary: $131,850
- Employment: 28,550
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($211,940)
--- Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA ($210,160)
--- Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL ($185,950)
- Job description: Arbitrate, advise, adjudicate, or administer justice in a court of law. May sentence defendant in criminal cases according to government statutes or sentencing guidelines. May determine liability of defendant in civil cases. May perform wedding ceremonies.
- Annual mean salary: $179,150
- #6 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 150
National
- Annual mean salary: $131,850
- Employment: 28,550
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($211,940)
--- Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA ($210,160)
--- Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL ($185,950)
- Job description: Arbitrate, advise, adjudicate, or administer justice in a court of law. May sentence defendant in criminal cases according to government statutes or sentencing guidelines. May determine liability of defendant in civil cases. May perform wedding ceremonies.
38 / 50
LightField Studios // Shutterstock
#13. Psychiatrists
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $185,900
- #75 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 760
National
- Annual mean salary: $217,100
- Employment: 25,540
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA ($297,710)
--- Santa Rosa, CA ($289,580)
--- Kansas City, MO-KS ($287,220)
- Job description: Diagnose, treat, and help prevent mental disorders.
- Annual mean salary: $185,900
- #75 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 760
National
- Annual mean salary: $217,100
- Employment: 25,540
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA ($297,710)
--- Santa Rosa, CA ($289,580)
--- Kansas City, MO-KS ($287,220)
- Job description: Diagnose, treat, and help prevent mental disorders.
39 / 50
Rappaport Center // Wikimedia Commons
#12. Lawyers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $186,070
- #3 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 43,990
National
- Annual mean salary: $148,910
- Employment: 658,120
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($231,610)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($201,920)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($186,070)
- Job description: Represent clients in criminal and civil litigation and other legal proceedings, draw up legal documents, or manage or advise clients on legal transactions. May specialize in a single area or may practice broadly in many areas of law.
- Annual mean salary: $186,070
- #3 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 43,990
National
- Annual mean salary: $148,910
- Employment: 658,120
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA ($231,610)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($201,920)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($186,070)
- Job description: Represent clients in criminal and civil litigation and other legal proceedings, draw up legal documents, or manage or advise clients on legal transactions. May specialize in a single area or may practice broadly in many areas of law.
40 / 50
Canva
#11. Airline pilots, copilots, and flight engineers
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $200,810
- #10 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,030
National
- Annual mean salary: $186,870
- Employment: 83,550
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI ($259,010)
--- Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island, FL ($254,640)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($252,430)
- Job description: Pilot and navigate the flight of fixed-wing aircraft, usually on scheduled air carrier routes, for the transport of passengers and cargo. Requires Federal Air Transport certificate and rating for specific aircraft type used. Includes regional, national, and international airline pilots and flight instructors of airline pilots.
- Annual mean salary: $200,810
- #10 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,030
National
- Annual mean salary: $186,870
- Employment: 83,550
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI ($259,010)
--- Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island, FL ($254,640)
--- San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA ($252,430)
- Job description: Pilot and navigate the flight of fixed-wing aircraft, usually on scheduled air carrier routes, for the transport of passengers and cargo. Requires Federal Air Transport certificate and rating for specific aircraft type used. Includes regional, national, and international airline pilots and flight instructors of airline pilots.
41 / 50
Canva
#10. Obstetricians and gynecologists
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $202,490
- #50 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 800
National
- Annual mean salary: $239,120
- Employment: 18,900
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI ($294,450)
--- Tulsa, OK ($294,400)
--- Albuquerque, NM ($292,740)
- Job description: Provide medical care related to pregnancy or childbirth. Diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases of women, particularly those affecting the reproductive system. May also provide general care to women. May perform both medical and gynecological surgery functions.
- Annual mean salary: $202,490
- #50 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 800
National
- Annual mean salary: $239,120
- Employment: 18,900
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI ($294,450)
--- Tulsa, OK ($294,400)
--- Albuquerque, NM ($292,740)
- Job description: Provide medical care related to pregnancy or childbirth. Diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases of women, particularly those affecting the reproductive system. May also provide general care to women. May perform both medical and gynecological surgery functions.
42 / 50
Canva
#9. Podiatrists
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $202,510
- #6 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 160
National
- Annual mean salary: $151,110
- Employment: 9,710
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Youngstown-Warren-Boardman, OH-PA ($229,330)
--- Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC ($226,260)
--- Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC ($221,380)
- Job description: Diagnose and treat diseases and deformities of the human foot.
- Annual mean salary: $202,510
- #6 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 160
National
- Annual mean salary: $151,110
- Employment: 9,710
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Youngstown-Warren-Boardman, OH-PA ($229,330)
--- Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC ($226,260)
--- Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC ($221,380)
- Job description: Diagnose and treat diseases and deformities of the human foot.
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Canva
#8. General internal medicine physicians
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $218,570
- #61 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,450
National
- Annual mean salary: $210,960
- Employment: 50,600
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Rochester, MN ($315,830)
--- Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC ($314,080)
--- Wichita Falls, TX ($311,260)
- Job description: Diagnose and provide nonsurgical treatment for a wide range of diseases and injuries of internal organ systems. Provide care mainly for adults and adolescents, and are based primarily in an outpatient care setting.
- Annual mean salary: $218,570
- #61 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,450
National
- Annual mean salary: $210,960
- Employment: 50,600
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Rochester, MN ($315,830)
--- Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC ($314,080)
--- Wichita Falls, TX ($311,260)
- Job description: Diagnose and provide nonsurgical treatment for a wide range of diseases and injuries of internal organ systems. Provide care mainly for adults and adolescents, and are based primarily in an outpatient care setting.
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Canva
#7. Dentists, general
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $219,710
- #46 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,560
National
- Annual mean salary: $180,830
- Employment: 95,920
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Dover-Durham, NH-ME ($286,540)
--- North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton, FL ($278,790)
--- Portland-South Portland, ME ($278,390)
- Job description: Examine, diagnose, and treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and gums. May treat diseases of nerve, pulp, and other dental tissues affecting oral hygiene and retention of teeth. May fit dental appliances or provide preventive care.
- Annual mean salary: $219,710
- #46 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,560
National
- Annual mean salary: $180,830
- Employment: 95,920
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Dover-Durham, NH-ME ($286,540)
--- North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton, FL ($278,790)
--- Portland-South Portland, ME ($278,390)
- Job description: Examine, diagnose, and treat diseases, injuries, and malformations of teeth and gums. May treat diseases of nerve, pulp, and other dental tissues affecting oral hygiene and retention of teeth. May fit dental appliances or provide preventive care.
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Canva
#6. Family medicine physicians
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $219,930
- #136 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,020
National
- Annual mean salary: $214,370
- Employment: 98,590
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bloomsburg-Berwick, PA ($309,800)
--- Napa, CA ($302,040)
--- Gadsden, AL ($292,110)
- Job description: Diagnose, treat, and provide preventive care to individuals and families across the lifespan. May refer patients to specialists when needed for further diagnosis or treatment.
- Annual mean salary: $219,930
- #136 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 2,020
National
- Annual mean salary: $214,370
- Employment: 98,590
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bloomsburg-Berwick, PA ($309,800)
--- Napa, CA ($302,040)
--- Gadsden, AL ($292,110)
- Job description: Diagnose, treat, and provide preventive care to individuals and families across the lifespan. May refer patients to specialists when needed for further diagnosis or treatment.
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Maurizio Pesce // flickr
#5. Chief executives
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $250,390
- #13 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 6,980
National
- Annual mean salary: $197,840
- Employment: 202,360
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($293,000)
--- Midland, TX ($269,360)
--- Sioux Falls, SD ($263,770)
- Job description: Determine and formulate policies and provide overall direction of companies or private and public sector organizations within guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body. Plan, direct, or coordinate operational activities at the highest level of management with the help of subordinate executives and staff managers.
- Annual mean salary: $250,390
- #13 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 6,980
National
- Annual mean salary: $197,840
- Employment: 202,360
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Bridgeport-Stamford-Norwalk, CT ($293,000)
--- Midland, TX ($269,360)
--- Sioux Falls, SD ($263,770)
- Job description: Determine and formulate policies and provide overall direction of companies or private and public sector organizations within guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body. Plan, direct, or coordinate operational activities at the highest level of management with the help of subordinate executives and staff managers.
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Canva
#4. Orthodontists
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $255,620
- #3 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 240
National
- Annual mean salary: $237,990
- Employment: 5,040
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Tulsa, OK ($286,050)
--- Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA ($262,340)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($255,620)
- Job description: Examine, diagnose, and treat dental malocclusions and oral cavity anomalies. Design and fabricate appliances to realign teeth and jaws to produce and maintain normal function and to improve appearance.
- Annual mean salary: $255,620
- #3 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 240
National
- Annual mean salary: $237,990
- Employment: 5,040
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Tulsa, OK ($286,050)
--- Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA ($262,340)
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($255,620)
- Job description: Examine, diagnose, and treat dental malocclusions and oral cavity anomalies. Design and fabricate appliances to realign teeth and jaws to produce and maintain normal function and to improve appearance.
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Unsplash
#3. Surgeons, except ophthalmologists
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $267,500
- #41 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 810
National
- Annual mean salary: $251,650
- Employment: 37,900
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Sioux City, IA-NE-SD ($305,480)
--- Akron, OH ($297,710)
--- Lincoln, NE ($296,150)
- Job description: Diagnose and perform surgery to treat and prevent rheumatic and other diseases in the musculoskeletal system.
- Annual mean salary: $267,500
- #41 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 810
National
- Annual mean salary: $251,650
- Employment: 37,900
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Sioux City, IA-NE-SD ($305,480)
--- Akron, OH ($297,710)
--- Lincoln, NE ($296,150)
- Job description: Diagnose and perform surgery to treat and prevent rheumatic and other diseases in the musculoskeletal system.
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Canva
#2. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $272,110
- #1 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: data not available
National
- Annual mean salary: $234,990
- Employment: 4,120
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($272,110)
--- Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI ($264,030)
--- Reading, PA ($254,370)
- Job description: Perform surgery and related procedures on the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial regions to treat diseases, injuries, or defects. May diagnose problems of the oral and maxillofacial regions. May perform surgery to improve function or appearance.
- Annual mean salary: $272,110
- #1 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: data not available
National
- Annual mean salary: $234,990
- Employment: 4,120
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV ($272,110)
--- Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI ($264,030)
--- Reading, PA ($254,370)
- Job description: Perform surgery and related procedures on the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial regions to treat diseases, injuries, or defects. May diagnose problems of the oral and maxillofacial regions. May perform surgery to improve function or appearance.
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Canva
#1. Anesthesiologists
Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
- Annual mean salary: $283,200
- #8 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,050
National
- Annual mean salary: $271,440
- Employment: 28,590
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Pittsburgh, PA ($307,390)
--- Duluth, MN-WI ($306,350)
--- Tallahassee, FL ($303,600)
- Job description: Administer anesthetics and analgesics for pain management prior to, during, or after surgery.
- Annual mean salary: $283,200
- #8 highest pay among all metros
- Employment: 1,050
National
- Annual mean salary: $271,440
- Employment: 28,590
- Entry level education requirements: Doctoral or professional degree
- Metros with highest average pay:
--- Pittsburgh, PA ($307,390)
--- Duluth, MN-WI ($306,350)
--- Tallahassee, FL ($303,600)
- Job description: Administer anesthetics and analgesics for pain management prior to, during, or after surgery.
