Dental Hygienist salary in Washington, DC
Median pay, Washington DC metro
$119,170/year
about $57.29 an hour full-time
Middle half earns $103,340 – $125,560
Half of dental hygienists in the Washington DC metro area earn more than $119,170 a year and half earn less. That's 21% higher than the national median of $98,100, and ranks #8 of the 30 big metro areas we track for this job.
Pay range
| Percentile | Yearly | Hourly* |
|---|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $94,290 | $45.33 |
| 25th | $103,340 | $49.68 |
| Median (50th) | $119,170 | $57.29 |
| 75th | $125,560 | $60.37 |
| 90th (top earners) | $132,000 | $63.46 |
*Yearly pay divided by 2,080 hours (40 hours × 52 weeks), the full-time basis BLS uses.
Is your offer fair?
For a dental hygienist job in the Washington DC metro area, here's how an offer compares:
- Below market under $103,340 ($49.68/hr). Fine for a first job in the field, otherwise worth negotiating.
- Typical $103,340 to $125,560 ($49.68 to $60.37/hr). The middle half of what people in this job earn.
- Strong offer over $125,560 ($60.37/hr). Higher than three quarters of workers here.
Before you accept
- Many hygienists work part-time or across several offices, so compare hourly rates, not just yearly totals.
- Ask how long each appointment slot is. Short slots mean a faster, harder day for the same pay.
- Check whether you're paid for days the office closes or patients cancel.
Also watch for the common warning signs in the posting itself: 15 job posting red flags.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, 2025, Washington DC metro. Occupation: Dental Hygienists (SOC 29-1292). Figures cover wage and salary workers and don't include bonuses, benefits or overtime.