Judge Salary in Virginia
The median judge salary in Virginia is $153,951 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $148,030.
Judge Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for judge compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for judge pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $153,951 per year, judges in Virginia earn $5,921 more than the national median of $148,030.
Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning judge salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Virginia is significant: judges at the 10th percentile earn $60,320, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $239,200 — a $178,880 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 $195,400.
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for judges across the country.
Judge Salary in Virginia by Experience
In Virginia, an entry-level judge earns around $67,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $223,600 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Virginia
| Percentile | VA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $60,320 |
| 25th Percentile | $93,600 |
| Median (50th) | $153,951 |
| 75th Percentile | $202,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $239,200 |
Judge Salary by City in Virginia
The largest employment areas for judges 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 Judge in Virginia
Education
Most judge positions require a doctoral degree. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Virginia
Nationally, judge employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Judges who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $69,649 over your career trajectory.
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