Civil Engineer Salary in Virginia
The median civil engineer salary in Virginia is $93,538 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $89,940.
Civil Engineer Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for civil engineer compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for civil engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $93,538 per year, civil engineers in Virginia earn $3,598 more than the national median of $89,940.
Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning civil engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Virginia is significant: civil engineers at the 10th percentile earn $62,816, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $144,144 — a $81,328 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 $118,721.
Nationally, civil engineer employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for civil engineers across the country.
Civil Engineer Salary in Virginia by Experience
In Virginia, an entry-level civil engineer earns around $64,480, while experienced professionals earn up to $135,200 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 | $62,816 |
| 25th Percentile | $76,128 |
| Median (50th) | $93,538 |
| 75th Percentile | $118,560 |
| 90th Percentile | $144,144 |
Civil Engineer Salary by City in Virginia
The largest employment areas for civil engineers 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 Civil Engineer in Virginia
Education
Most civil engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Virginia
Nationally, civil engineer employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Civil Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $41,662 over your career trajectory.
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