Architect Salary in Chesapeake, Virginia
The median architect salary in Chesapeake, VA is $81,183 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 5.8% below the Virginia state average.
Architect Pay in Chesapeake: What to Expect (2026)
Chesapeake offers a median architect salary of $81,183, which is $4,971 below the Virginia state average of $86,154. Compared to the national median of $82,840, Chesapeake pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Chesapeake's cost of living is 98% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for architects in Chesapeake spans from $49,000 at the 10th percentile to $145,040 at the 90th percentile — a $96,040 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $50,960, while senior architects with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $137,200. With a population of 249,422, Chesapeake is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Architect Salary in Chesapeake by Experience
In Chesapeake, an entry-level architect earns around $50,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $137,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chesapeake, VA
| Percentile | Chesapeake |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $49,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $62,720 |
| Median (50th) | $81,183 |
| 75th Percentile | $109,760 |
| 90th Percentile | $145,040 |
Architect Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Architect in Chesapeake
Education
Most architect positions require a bachelor's degree. Chesapeake and the surrounding Virginia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, architect employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Chesapeake may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Architect Jobs in Chesapeake
Browse open architect positions in Chesapeake, VA: