Bethesda vs Columbia: Actuary Salary (2026)
Compare actuary salaries between Bethesda, MD and Columbia, MD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bethesda, MD | Columbia, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $141,634▲ | $133,376 |
| Hourly Rate | $68.09▲ | $64.12 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $85,683▲ | $78,050 |
| 25th Percentile | $105,857▲ | $97,498 |
| 75th Percentile | $181,291▲ | $170,721 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $219,532▲ | $206,732 |
| Total Employed | 18 | 24▲ |
Verdict
Bethesda, MD offers better overall compensation for actuaries, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbia.
The salary gap between Bethesda and Columbia is $8,258 (6.19%). Bethesda's median is +5.57% compared to the US national median of $134,160.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bethesda spans $133,849,Columbia spans $128,682. Bethesda has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Bethesda ($129,583 effective) pays 6.19% more than Columbia ($122,027 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bethesda if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($141,634/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($219,532)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $129,583)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Larger job market (24 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, actuary salaries in Bethesda grew 0.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -11.5% growth in Columbia over the same period.
Bethesda, MD
$137,242 (2024) → $137,242 (2025)
Columbia, MD
$146,100 (2024) → $129,240 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bethesda, MD
Columbia, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in life insurance. She specializes in risk assessment and pricing strategies.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.20% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Maria Chen, FSA, MAAA, a licensed actuary with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov