Healthcare Virginia (VA) Rank #14 of 50

Genetic Counselor Salary in Virginia

The median genetic counselor salary in Virginia is $95,389 per year, which is 6.0% above the national median of $89,990.

Median Salary
$95,389
vs National
+$5,399
State Rank
#14 of 50
Cost of Living
104%

Genetic Counselor Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)

Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for genetic counselor compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for genetic counselor pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $95,389 per year, genetic counselors in Virginia earn $5,399 more than the national median of $89,990.

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

The salary spread in Virginia is significant: genetic counselors at the 10th percentile earn $63,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $137,800 — a $74,200 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 $120,587.

Nationally, genetic counselor employment is projected to grow 26% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Virginia and beyond.

Genetic Counselor Salary in Virginia by Experience

In Virginia, an entry-level genetic counselor earns around $65,720, while experienced professionals earn up to $132,500 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$65,720
+$3,720 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$96,460
+$5,460 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$132,500
+$7,500 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Virginia

Percentile VA Salary
10th Percentile $63,600
25th Percentile $78,440
Median (50th) $95,389
75th Percentile $114,480
90th Percentile $137,800

Genetic Counselor Salary by City in Virginia

The largest employment areas for genetic counselors 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 Genetic Counselor in Virginia

Education

Most genetic counselor positions require a master's degree. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

GeneticsPatient CounselingPedigree AnalysisGenetic TestingCommunicationEthics

Job Outlook in Virginia

Nationally, genetic counselor employment is projected to grow 26% over the next decade (much faster than average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Genetic Counselor Salary in Virginia

How much does a Genetic Counselor make in Virginia? ▼
The median genetic counselor salary in Virginia is $95,389 per year, which is 6.0% above the national median of $89,990. Salaries range from $63,600 (10th percentile) to $137,800 (90th percentile).
How much does a Genetic Counselor make per hour in Virginia? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $95,389, a genetic counselor in Virginia earns approximately $46 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Virginia a good state for genetic counselors? ▼
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for genetic counselor pay. The cost of living index is 104% of the national average. Entry-level genetic counselors earn $65,720, while senior professionals earn $132,500.
How does Virginia compare to other states for genetic counselor salary? ▼
The highest paying state for genetic counselors is Hawaii at $160,182. Virginia's median of $95,389 ranks #14 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Rhode Island ($97,189) and Colorado ($96,289).
What is the entry-level genetic counselor salary in Virginia? ▼
An entry-level genetic counselor in Virginia earns approximately $65,720 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $96,460. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $132,500.
What city in Virginia pays genetic counselors the most? ▼
Arlington is the highest paying city in Virginia for genetic counselors, with a median salary of $120,587. Other cities include Virginia Beach and Norfolk.