As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Cost Engineering in District of Columbia is $80,917 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $39.
However, a Cost Engineering's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Cost Engineering'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.
Experience is a primary driver of a Cost Engineering's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here’s how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Cost Engi... Level Cost Engineering | $81,425 |
| Cost Esti... Level Cost Engineering | $104,459 |
| Cost Esti... Level Cost Engineering | $117,614 |
| Cost Esti... Level Cost Engineering | $155,970 |
| Cost Esti... Level Cost Engineering | $184,093 |
What Am I Worth?
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 Cost Engineerings. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
For Cost Engineering roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 45% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 20% above the average. In contrast, Cost Engineering positions in Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit or Retail & Wholesale typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Cost Engineering as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biotechnology | $97,101 | $47.0 | 20% |
| Pharmaceuticals | $97,101 | $47.0 | 20% |
| Financial Services | $93,055 | $45.0 | 15% |
| Insurance | $93,055 | $45.0 | 15% |
| Software & Networking | $93,055 | $45.0 | 15% |
Understanding how a Cost Engineering'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 September 01, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Cost Engineering job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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