Science & Research Virginia (VA) Rank #14 of 50

Geologist Salary in Virginia

The median geologist salary in Virginia is $87,027 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $83,680.

Median Salary
$87,027
vs National
+$3,347
State Rank
#14 of 50
Cost of Living
104%

Geologist Salary in Virginia by Experience

In Virginia, an entry-level geologist earns around $56,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $145,600 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$56,160
+$2,160 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$88,400
+$3,400 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$145,600
+$5,600 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Virginia

Percentile VA Salary
10th Percentile $53,040
25th Percentile $65,520
Median (50th) $87,027
75th Percentile $116,480
90th Percentile $153,920

Geologist Salary by City in Virginia

The largest employment areas for geologists 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 Geologist in Virginia

Education

Most geologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Field GeologyGISRock AnalysisStratigraphyEnvironmental AssessmentTechnical Writing

Job Outlook in Virginia

Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Find Geologist Jobs in Virginia

Browse open geologist positions in Virginia:

Frequently Asked Questions: Geologist Salary in Virginia

How much does a Geologist make in Virginia?
The median geologist salary in Virginia is $87,027 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $83,680. Salaries range from $53,040 (10th percentile) to $153,920 (90th percentile).
How much does a Geologist make per hour in Virginia?
Based on the median annual salary of $87,027, a geologist in Virginia earns approximately $42 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Virginia a good state for geologists?
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for geologist pay. The cost of living index is 104% of the national average. Entry-level geologists earn $56,160, while senior professionals earn $145,600.
How does Virginia compare to other states for geologist salary?
The highest paying state for geologists is Hawaii at $142,256. Virginia's median of $87,027 ranks #14 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Hampshire ($87,864) and Rhode Island ($87,864).
What is the entry-level geologist salary in Virginia?
An entry-level geologist in Virginia earns approximately $56,160 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $88,400. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $145,600.
What city in Virginia pays geologists the most?
Arlington is the highest paying city in Virginia for geologists, with a median salary of $110,458. Other cities include Virginia Beach and Norfolk.