Chemical Engineer Salary in Arlington, Virginia
The median chemical engineer salary in Arlington, VA is $140,263 per year, which is 32.0% above the national median and 26.9% above the Virginia state average.
Chemical Engineer Pay in Arlington: What to Expect (2026)
Arlington offers a median chemical engineer salary of $140,263, which is $29,753 above the Virginia state average of $110,510. Compared to the national median of $106,260, Arlington pays above average for this role.
However, Arlington's cost of living index is 132%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $140,263 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $106,260. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Arlington should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for chemical engineers in Arlington spans from $89,760 at the 10th percentile to $227,040 at the 90th percentile — a $137,280 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $92,400, while senior chemical engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $213,840. With a population of 238,643, Arlington is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Chemical Engineer Salary in Arlington by Experience
In Arlington, an entry-level chemical engineer earns around $92,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $213,840 per year. The local cost of living index is 132% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Arlington, VA
| Percentile | Arlington |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $89,760 |
| 25th Percentile | $110,880 |
| Median (50th) | $140,263 |
| 75th Percentile | $182,160 |
| 90th Percentile | $227,040 |
Chemical Engineer Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Chemical Engineer in Arlington
Education
Most chemical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Arlington and the surrounding Virginia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, chemical engineer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Arlington may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Chemical Engineer Jobs in Arlington
Browse open chemical engineer positions in Arlington, VA: