Agriculture & Environment Virginia (VA) Rank #14 of 50

Fish and Game Warden Salary in Virginia

The median fish and game warden salary in Virginia is $54,912 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $52,800.

Median Salary
$54,912
vs National
+$2,112
State Rank
#14 of 50
Cost of Living
104%

Fish and Game Warden Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)

Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for fish and game warden compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for fish and game warden pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $54,912 per year, fish and game wardens in Virginia earn $2,112 more than the national median of $52,800.

Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning fish and game warden salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Virginia is significant: fish and game wardens at the 10th percentile earn $35,360, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $85,280 — a $49,920 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 $69,696.

Nationally, fish and game warden employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for fish and game wardens across the country.

Fish and Game Warden Salary in Virginia by Experience

In Virginia, an entry-level fish and game warden earns around $37,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $81,120 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$37,440
+$1,440 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$56,160
+$2,160 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$81,120
+$3,120 vs national

Save More on Student Loans

Earning $54,912? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.

Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →

Salary Percentiles in Virginia

Percentile VA Salary
10th Percentile $35,360
25th Percentile $43,680
Median (50th) $54,912
75th Percentile $70,720
90th Percentile $85,280

Fish and Game Warden Salary by City in Virginia

The largest employment areas for fish and game wardens 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 Fish and Game Warden in Virginia

Education

Most fish and game warden positions require a bachelor's degree. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Wildlife LawConservationLaw EnforcementFirearmsBoating SafetyCommunication

Job Outlook in Virginia

Nationally, fish and game warden employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Stand Out from the Competition

85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 7,200 other Fish and Game Wardens.

Get a Professional Resume →

Open to Fish and Game Warden Roles in Virginia?

Get matched with recruiters hiring fish and game wardens in Virginia at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Fish and Game Warden Salary in Virginia

How much does a Fish and Game Warden make in Virginia? ▼
The median fish and game warden salary in Virginia is $54,912 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $52,800. Salaries range from $35,360 (10th percentile) to $85,280 (90th percentile).
How much does a Fish and Game Warden make per hour in Virginia? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $54,912, a fish and game warden in Virginia earns approximately $26 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Virginia a good state for fish and game wardens? ▼
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for fish and game warden pay. The cost of living index is 104% of the national average. Entry-level fish and game wardens earn $37,440, while senior professionals earn $81,120.
How does Virginia compare to other states for fish and game warden salary? ▼
The highest paying state for fish and game wardens is Hawaii at $89,760. Virginia's median of $54,912 ranks #14 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Hampshire ($55,440) and Rhode Island ($55,440).
What is the entry-level fish and game warden salary in Virginia? ▼
An entry-level fish and game warden in Virginia earns approximately $37,440 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $56,160. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $81,120.
What city in Virginia pays fish and game wardens the most? ▼
Arlington is the highest paying city in Virginia for fish and game wardens, with a median salary of $69,696. Other cities include Virginia Beach and Norfolk.