Archivist Salary in Virginia
The median archivist salary in Virginia is $60,986 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $58,640.
Archivist Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for archivist compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for archivist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $60,986 per year, archivists in Virginia earn $2,346 more than the national median of $58,640.
Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning archivist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Virginia is significant: archivists at the 10th percentile earn $37,440, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $97,760 — a $60,320 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Virginia for this role is Arlington, where the median reaches $77,405.
Nationally, archivist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for archivists across the country.
Archivist Salary in Virginia by Experience
In Virginia, an entry-level archivist earns around $39,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $91,520 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Virginia
| Percentile | VA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $37,440 |
| 25th Percentile | $47,840 |
| Median (50th) | $60,986 |
| 75th Percentile | $79,040 |
| 90th Percentile | $97,760 |
Archivist Salary by City in Virginia
The largest employment areas for archivists in Virginia include Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond, and Arlington. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Archivist in Virginia
Education
Most archivist positions require a master's degree. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Virginia
Nationally, archivist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Archivists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $30,534 over your career trajectory.
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