Entry-level positions on the hill typically pay less than positions elsewhere in the city. If you are an experienced job seeker, then 'salary is commensurate with experience'. In other words, rely on your salary history as a guide. If you have the experience that the employer values, then you will be paid accordingly. There is a lot of turnover in D.C., especially at the lower levels.
Turnover is high in congressional offices and think-tanks tend to be slightly more stable.
You are correct in assuming that there are more opportunities for conservatives today than there were even 5 years ago. The most popular positions are on Capitol Hill. Otherwise, people are seeking positions within think tanks, PR firms, lobbying firms and trade associations. The chances are good, if you are persistent in your job search. To conduct an effective job search in D.C., it is imperative that you are living in D.C., or the surrounding suburbs.