Economist Salary in Richmond, Virginia
The median economist salary in Richmond, VA is $119,637 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 3.7% below the Virginia state average.
Economist Pay in Richmond: What to Expect (2026)
Richmond offers a median economist salary of $119,637, which is $4,558 below the Virginia state average of $124,195. Compared to the national median of $113,940, Richmond pays above average for this role.
Richmond's cost of living is 100% 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 Richmond spans from $65,100 at the 10th percentile to $207,900 at the 90th percentile — a $142,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $68,250, while senior economists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $194,250. With a population of 226,610, Richmond is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Economist Salary in Richmond by Experience
In Richmond, an entry-level economist earns around $68,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $194,250 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Richmond, VA
| Percentile | Richmond |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $65,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,100 |
| Median (50th) | $119,637 |
| 75th Percentile | $162,750 |
| 90th Percentile | $207,900 |
Economist Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Economist in Richmond
Education
Most economist positions require a master's degree. Richmond 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 Richmond may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Economist Jobs in Richmond
Browse open economist positions in Richmond, VA: