Economist Salary in Chesapeake, Virginia
The median economist salary in Chesapeake, VA is $117,358 per year, which is 3.0% above the national median and 5.5% below the Virginia state average.
Economist Pay in Chesapeake: What to Expect (2026)
Chesapeake offers a median economist salary of $117,358, which is $6,837 below the Virginia state average of $124,195. Compared to the national median of $113,940, Chesapeake pays above average 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 economists in Chesapeake spans from $63,860 at the 10th percentile to $203,940 at the 90th percentile — a $140,080 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $66,950, while senior economists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $190,550. With a population of 249,422, Chesapeake is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Economist Salary in Chesapeake by Experience
In Chesapeake, an entry-level economist earns around $66,950, while experienced professionals earn up to $190,550 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chesapeake, VA
| Percentile | Chesapeake |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $63,860 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,460 |
| Median (50th) | $117,358 |
| 75th Percentile | $159,650 |
| 90th Percentile | $203,940 |
Economist Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Economist in Chesapeake
Education
Most economist positions require a master's degree. Chesapeake and the surrounding Virginia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Chesapeake may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Economist Jobs in Chesapeake
Browse open economist positions in Chesapeake, VA: