Controller Jobs in Washington, DC
About Controller Jobs in Washington
Looking for a Controller job in Washington? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Controller in Washington, DC.
We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.
Washington has a strong job market for Controllers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.
Controller Salary in Washington
Controller salaries in Washington are 52% above the national average, reflecting the high cost of living.
Purchasing power in Washington is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.
Required Skills
Controller Job Market in Washington
Washington, DC is one of America's premier job markets for Controller professionals. As a mid-sized metro with 690K residents, Washington balances career opportunities with quality of life. The city's strong Government and Technology sectors create robust demand for Controller talent. The market for Controller positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.
Top Companies Hiring Controllers in Washington
Major employers hiring Controllers in Washington include Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Capital One, CoStar Group, and GEICO. The strong financial services presence creates consistent demand for experienced Controller professionals, with competitive compensation packages. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.
Cost of Living for Controllers in Washington
Living in Washington as a Controller means navigating a cost of living that's significantly above the national average (152% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,600/month (44% above the national average of $1,800). At median Controller salary, housing is quite affordable at 15% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,900/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.
Commuting as a Controller in Washington
Washington Metro rail system with 6 lines, Metrobus, and commuter rail options. The average commute time is 34 minutes. Metro connects DC to Virginia and Maryland suburbs. Many government and contractor jobs cluster near Metro stations.
Best neighborhoods for Controllers in Washington: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Controller professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.
Tax Considerations in District of Columbia
District of Columbia has moderate state income taxes. When evaluating offers, consider total compensation including benefits, not just base salary. Local cost of living typically has more impact on your finances than state tax differences.
Career Outlook for Controllers
The job outlook for Controllers in Washington is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. As a Tier 1 market, Washington typically has more openings but also more competition from experienced professionals. In-demand skills include Financial Reporting, GAAP, Team Management, Internal Controls.
Relocating to Washington
Washington has a very high cost of living. Many Controllers negotiate relocation packages or sign-on bonuses to offset moving costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Controller salary in Washington, DC?
The average Controller salary in Washington, DC is $205,200 per year. Entry-level Controllers typically start around $129,200, while experienced professionals can earn $297,160 or more. The national average for Controller roles is $135,000.
How many Controller jobs are available in Washington?
Washington has a robust job market with hundreds of openings for Controller professionals. Major employers hiring Controllers include Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Capital One, CoStar Group. The Government and Technology sectors drive much of the demand in this market.
Is Washington a good city for Controllers?
Washington is an excellent choice for Controllers. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. However, be aware of the higher cost of living when evaluating offers. The city's government industry creates strong demand for finance & accounting professionals.
What skills are most in-demand for Controllers in Washington?
Top skills for Controllers in Washington include Financial Reporting, GAAP, Team Management, Internal Controls, ERP Systems. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.
What is the cost of living for Controllers in Washington?
Washington's cost of living is significantly above the national average (152% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $2,600/month. Purchasing power in Washington is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.
How is the commute for Controllers in Washington?
Washington Metro rail system with 6 lines, Metrobus, and commuter rail options. The average commute is 34 minutes. Metro connects DC to Virginia and Maryland suburbs.
More Finance & Accounting Jobs in Washington
Career Resources
Popular Jobs in Washington
Controller in Other Cities
Get Hired Faster
Create an AI-optimized resume tailored for Controller jobs in Washington.
Get Started Free