GovernmentOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1006–10 years
Senior Policy Analyst Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Senior-level professionals in the top quarter of the market.
$121,765/yr
Typical range: $133,978 – $151,302
P75 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Policy Analyst salary by experience level in Washington DC
Policy Analyst Salary Progression in Washington DC
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $91,324 | $7,610 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $103,032 | $8,586 | +13% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $112,399 | $9,367 | +23% |
| SeniorThis page | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $121,765 | $10,147 | +33% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $140,498 | $11,708 | +54% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $157,358 | $13,113 | +72% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $161,573 | $13,464 | +77% |
Current Salary
$121,765
Senior · 6–10 years
Hourly: $59/hr
Next Level Target
$140,498
Staff · 10
+$19Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
32/100
High Risk
+5% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the senior Policy Analyst salary in Washington DC, DC?
Senior Policy Analysts in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $122K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P75 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a senior Policy Analyst make per hour in Washington DC, DC?
Based on $122K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $59/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from senior to senior Policy Analyst in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Policy Analyst in Washington DC, DC earns $134K–$151K/yr.