Updated 2026

UX Designer Salary in Washington 2026

Average Base
$105,000
+4.2% from 2025
Typical Range
$75,000$165,000
10th - 90th percentile
Total Comp
~$126,000
Includes Equity/Bonus

Explore UX Designer roles in Washington, DC with companies that are actively scaling their product design teams. Hybrid and remote-friendly options are common, giving designers flexibility while staying connected to local teams. Experience with Figma, prototyping, and usability testing remains a core expectation. Many employers in Washington, DC are investing in design systems to scale product quality efficiently.

Compensation is influenced by company stage, product complexity, and the ability to drive measurable outcomes. Companies value designers who can translate insights into measurable product outcomes. Salaries vary by seniority and company stage, but top performers can earn well above the local median. Use this page to compare roles, explore salary benchmarks, and connect with companies hiring in Washington, DC. If you are early in your search, start with the highest-signal listings and track applications consistently.

Salary Distribution

Cost of Living Analysis

Washington has a cost of living index of 145, which can influence take-home value even when salaries appear higher. Consider housing, transportation, and tax differences when evaluating offers.

CityMedian
New York$137,000
San Francisco$142,000
Seattle$131,000
Boston$126,000
Los Angeles$126,000

Frequently Asked Questions

Which industries are hiring UX Designers in Washington, DC?
Fintech, healthcare, SaaS, and consumer marketplaces are all hiring UX Designers in Washington, DC. Enterprise teams also invest in UX to improve retention and satisfaction.
How competitive is the UX Designer job market in Washington, DC?
Competition varies by specialization. Candidates with strong case studies and measurable outcomes stand out quickly in the hiring process.
What skills do UX Designers in Washington, DC need most?
Hiring teams look for UX fundamentals, strong communication, and the ability to ship iterative improvements based on user feedback.