As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Federal Public Defender in District of Columbia is $72,803 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $35.
However, a Federal Public Defender's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Federal Public Defender's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Federal Public Defenders. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
For Federal Public Defender roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 60% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Financial Services and Pharmaceuticals sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 30% above the average. In contrast, Federal Public Defender positions in Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit or Hospitality & Leisure typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Federal Public Defender as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Financial Services | $94,644 | $46.0 | 30% |
| Pharmaceuticals | $91,004 | $44.0 | 25% |
| Biotechnology | $83,724 | $40.0 | 15% |
| Energy & Utilities | $83,724 | $40.0 | 15% |
| Insurance | $83,724 | $40.0 | 15% |
Understanding how a Federal Public Defender's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Federal Public Defender job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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