Financial Controller Salary in Arlington, Virginia
The median financial controller salary in Arlington, VA is $171,250 per year, which is 37.0% above the national median and 25.7% above the Virginia state average.
Financial Controller Pay in Arlington: What to Expect (2026)
Arlington offers a median financial controller salary of $171,250, which is $35,000 above the Virginia state average of $136,250. Compared to the national median of $125,000, 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 $171,250 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $129,735. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Arlington should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for financial controllers in Arlington spans from $106,860 at the 10th percentile to $271,260 at the 90th percentile — a $164,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $112,340, while senior financial controllers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $260,300. With a population of 238,643, Arlington is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Financial Controller Salary in Arlington by Experience
In Arlington, an entry-level financial controller earns around $112,340, while experienced professionals earn up to $260,300 per year. The local cost of living index is 132% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Arlington, VA
| Percentile | Arlington |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $106,860 |
| 25th Percentile | $134,260 |
| Median (50th) | $171,250 |
| 75th Percentile | $221,940 |
| 90th Percentile | $271,260 |
Financial Controller Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Financial Controller in Arlington
Education
Most financial controller positions require a bachelor's degree. Arlington and the surrounding Virginia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, financial controller employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Arlington may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Financial Controller Jobs in Arlington
Browse open financial controller positions in Arlington, VA: