Biochemist and Biophysicist Salary in District of Columbia
Based on 70+ workers in District of Columbia
Median Annual Salary (DC)
$120,090
$57.74/hr
vs National Average
$99,195
+21.1% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$62K – $182K
70 employed in District of Columbia
Biochemist and Biophysicist salary in District of Columbia averages $120,090 annually, positioning the region significantly above the national average at 21% higher. With approximately 70 workers employed in this field locally, professionals can expect compensation ranging from $62,080 to $182,100 depending on their experience and specialization.
Several factors influence earning potential for biochemists and biophysicists in the District. Education level, years of experience, and specific research focus substantially impact salary outcomes. Additionally, the concentration of federal agencies, research institutions, and biotech companies in the region creates competitive compensation packages. Credentials, advanced degrees, and specialized expertise in high-demand areas typically command higher salaries within this local job market.
Salary Distribution — Biochemist and Biophysicist in District of Columbia
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $62,080 |
| 25th percentile | $62,540 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $120,090 |
| 75th percentile | $182,100 |
| 90th percentile | $182,100 |
Top-Paying Industries for Biochemist and Biophysicist (U.S.)
Which industries pay Biochemist and Biophysicists the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Biochemist and Biophysicists in District of Columbia tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Wholesale Trade | $145,050 | 730 |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $131,050 | 23K |
| Administrative and Support Services | $111,220 | 290 |
| Manufacturing | $108,360 | 7K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $101,090 | — |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Biochemist and Biophysicist in District of Columbia vs National
| Year | Median Salary (District of Columbia) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $77,870 |
| 2023 | $66,770 |
| 2025 | $120,090 |
| 2026 (projected) | $127,295 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | District of Columbia Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $77,870 | $86,103 |
| 2023 | $66,770 | $88,658 |
| 2025 | $120,090 | $99,195 |
| 2026 (projected) | $127,295 | $105,147 |
Biochemist and Biophysicist Salary by Experience Level in District of Columbia
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $62,540 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $120,090 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $182,100 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $182,100 |
Biochemist and Biophysicist Salary in Other States
Related Biochemist and Biophysicist Salaries in District of Columbia
How other high-demand occupations in District of Columbia compare to Biochemist and Biophysicist ($120,090 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Biochemist and Biophysicist | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physicist in DC | $157,040 | +30.8% | $75.50/hr |
| Chemist in DC | $149,860 | +24.8% | $72.05/hr |
| Urban and Regional Planner in DC | $137,000 | +14.1% | $65.87/hr |
| Environmental Scientist in DC | $132,620 | +10.4% | $63.76/hr |
| Psychologist in DC | $107,000 | -10.9% | $51.44/hr |
| Medical Scientist in DC | $101,940 | -15.1% | $49.01/hr |
| Computer Systems Analyst in DC | $116,820 | -2.7% | $56.16/hr |
| Real Estate Sales Agent in DC | $123,770 | +3.1% | $59.50/hr |
| Purchasing Agent in DC | $124,090 | +3.3% | $59.66/hr |
| Industrial Production Manager in DC | $124,420 | +3.6% | $59.82/hr |
| Budget Analyst in DC | $124,590 | +3.7% | $59.90/hr |
| Tax Examiner in DC | $125,110 | +4.2% | $60.15/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do biochemists and biophysicists make in Washington DC?
- The median salary for biochemists and biophysicists in District of Columbia is $120,090 per year, or $58 per hour. This is 21.1% higher than the national average, making DC one of the top-paying locations for this profession.
What is the salary range for biochemists in DC?
- Biochemist and biophysicist salaries in District of Columbia range from $62,080 at the lower end to $182,100 at the upper end. This wide range reflects differences in experience, education level, and specific job responsibilities.
Is the DC biochemist salary higher than the national average?
- Yes, biochemists and biophysicists earn significantly more in District of Columbia compared to the national average, with a premium of 21.1%. The median DC salary of $120,090 per year substantially exceeds typical compensation in other regions.
How many biochemists and biophysicists work in Washington DC?
- There are approximately 70 biochemists and biophysicists currently employed in District of Columbia. This represents a relatively specialized workforce in the region.