Architectural and Civil Drafters in District of Columbia
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | District of Columbia | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $88,430 | $64,280 | +37.6% vs US |
| State Rank | #1 of 53 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 540 jobs | 109,550 jobs | 0.5% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in District of Columbia
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $66,530 | $31.98 |
| 25th Percentile | $78,850 | $37.91 |
| Median | $88,430 | $42.51 |
| 75th Percentile | $99,960 | $48.06 |
| 90th Percentile | $131,540 | $63.24 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Architectural and Civil Drafters in District of Columbia in 2026?
With a median salary of $88,430 in District of Columbia and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +80.3%, architectural and civil drafters are still in strong and growing demand.
How can architectural and civil drafters increase their salary in District of Columbia?
Architectural and Civil Drafters in District of Columbia can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: District of Columbia currently ranks #1 out of 53 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Architectural and Civil Drafters in District of Columbia?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Primary Metal Manufacturing | $131,590 |
| Steel Product Manufacturing from Purchased Steel | $131,590 |
| Painting and Wall Covering Contractors | $131,020 |
How are Architectural and Civil Drafters paid in District of Columbia compared to the national average?
The median salary for Architectural and Civil Drafters in District of Columbia is $88,430, which is 37.6% above the national median of $64,280.