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Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers in District of Columbia

Poets, lyricists, and creative writers produce original written content including scripts, essays, poetry, and song lyrics intended for publication or performance. They work in publishing houses, entertainment studios, advertising agencies, media companies, and as independent freelancers, developing material across print, film, television, music, and digital platforms. In District of Columbia the median pay is $129,300 a year, 68% above the national median of $76,910.

$129,300median pay in District of Columbia, per year
$100,320–$158,020middle half earn
1,050employed in District of Columbia
$76,910U.S. median, for comparison
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What it takes

Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most hold a certificate or training program.

Skills that matter most

WritingReading ComprehensionSpeakingCritical ThinkingActive LearningActive ListeningJudgment and Decision MakingSocial Perceptiveness

Knowledge areas

English LanguageCommunications and MediaComputers and ElectronicsAdministrativeSales and MarketingFine Arts

Full profile, interests that fit, certifications and training: Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers.

Licenses and training in District of Columbia

Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers pay in other states

Related occupations

Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against poets, lyricists and creative writers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
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O*NET-SOC 27-3043.05. Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, District of Columbia, annual.