Librarian Salary in District of Columbia
Based on 960+ workers in District of Columbia
Median Annual Salary (DC)
$96,550
$46.418/hr
vs National Average
$67,495
+43.0% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$64K – $127K
960 employed in District of Columbia
Librarian salary in District of Columbia averages $96,550 annually, positioning the nation's capital among the highest-paying regions for this profession. The median salary stands 43% above the national average, reflecting the area's cost of living and demand for information professionals. Approximately 960 librarians work throughout the district, contributing to a competitive job market.
Several factors influence librarian compensation in this region. Education level, specialized certifications, and years of experience significantly impact earning potential, with salaries ranging from $63,540 to $126,660. Employment settings—whether academic institutions, federal libraries, or public systems—also play a role in determining pay scales. The concentration of government agencies and research organizations in Washington, D.C. creates opportunities for higher-paying positions.
Salary Distribution — Librarian in District of Columbia
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $63,540 |
| 25th percentile | $76,960 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $96,550 |
| 75th percentile | $108,780 |
| 90th percentile | $126,660 |
Historical Salary Trend — Librarian in District of Columbia vs National
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $85,730 |
| 2023 | $91,010 |
| 2024 | $93,740 |
| 2025 | $96,550 |
| Year | District of Columbia Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $85,730 | $60,472 |
| 2023 | $91,010 | $64,094 |
| 2024 | $93,740 | $64,573 |
| 2025 | $96,550 | $67,495 |
Librarian Salary by Experience Level in District of Columbia
Librarian Salary in Other States
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do librarians make in Washington DC?
- The median salary for librarians in District of Columbia is $96,550 per year, or approximately $46 per hour. This is significantly higher than the national average, reflecting a 43.0% premium for the DC market.
What is the salary range for librarians in DC?
- Librarian salaries in District of Columbia range from $63,540 at the lower end to $126,660 at the upper end, providing a substantial range based on experience and specialization.
How many librarians work in District of Columbia?
- There are approximately 960 librarians currently employed in District of Columbia, representing a stable workforce in the region.
Is DC a good market for librarian salaries?
- Yes, District of Columbia offers librarian salaries that are 43.0% above the national average, with a median of $96,550 annually, making it one of the most competitive markets for this profession.