How Much Do Political Scientists Make in Washington DC?
Median wage from BLS May 2025 — and the after-tax number the salary sites skip. Tax year 2026.
Quick answer
According to payandtaxes.com's analysis of BLS May 2025 data and 2026 tax law, the median Political Scientists in Washington DC earns $152,530 per year and takes home $105,524 ($8,794/month) — a keep-rate of 69.2%, with 3,070 employed in the state.
Free. No signup. Single filer, standard deduction — full model.
| Gross pay | $12,710.83 |
| Federal income tax | $2,111.76 |
| Social Security | $788.07 |
| Medicare | $184.31 |
| Washington DC state income tax | $833.05 |
| You keep | $8,793.65 |
How much do Political Scientists make in Washington DC?
The median Political Scientists in Washington DC earns $152,530 per year (BLS May 2025), about $73.33 per hour.
What is that after taxes?
$152,530 gross in Washington DC keeps $105,524 after federal income tax ($25,341), FICA ($11,669) and state income tax ($9,997) — $8,794 per month, a 69.2% keep-rate.
How does Washington DC compare to the national median for Political Scientists?
The Washington DC median is $10,450 above the national median of $142,080.
Which state pays Political Scientists the most?
Maryland has the highest median gross for Political Scientists at $153,380 — but compare take-home, not gross: state taxes change the order.
Political Scientists salary in every state · Washington DC paycheck calculator · Washington DC minimum wage