Nuclear Engineer Salary in Virginia
The median nuclear engineer salary in Virginia is $125,195 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $120,380.
Nuclear Engineer Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for nuclear engineer compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for nuclear engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $125,195 per year, nuclear engineers in Virginia earn $4,815 more than the national median of $120,380.
Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning nuclear engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Virginia is significant: nuclear engineers at the 10th percentile earn $79,040, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $185,120 — a $106,080 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 $158,902.
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for nuclear engineers across the country.
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Virginia by Experience
In Virginia, an entry-level nuclear engineer earns around $81,120, while experienced professionals earn up to $178,880 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 | $79,040 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,840 |
| Median (50th) | $125,195 |
| 75th Percentile | $153,920 |
| 90th Percentile | $185,120 |
Nuclear Engineer Salary by City in Virginia
The largest employment areas for nuclear engineers 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 Nuclear Engineer in Virginia
Education
Most nuclear engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Virginia
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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