Nuclear Engineer Salary in Arlington, Virginia
The median nuclear engineer salary in Arlington, VA is $158,902 per year, which is 32.0% above the national median and 26.9% above the Virginia state average.
Nuclear Engineer Pay in Arlington: What to Expect (2026)
Arlington offers a median nuclear engineer salary of $158,902, which is $33,707 above the Virginia state average of $125,195. Compared to the national median of $120,380, Arlington pays above average for this role.
However, Arlington's cost of living index is 132%, significantly above the national average. After adjusting for local costs, the $158,902 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $120,380. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Arlington should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for nuclear engineers in Arlington spans from $100,320 at the 10th percentile to $234,960 at the 90th percentile — a $134,640 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $102,960, while senior nuclear engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $227,040. With a population of 238,643, Arlington is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Arlington by Experience
In Arlington, an entry-level nuclear engineer earns around $102,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $227,040 per year. The local cost of living index is 132% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Arlington, VA
| Percentile | Arlington |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $100,320 |
| 25th Percentile | $126,720 |
| Median (50th) | $158,902 |
| 75th Percentile | $195,360 |
| 90th Percentile | $234,960 |
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Nuclear Engineer in Arlington
Education
Most nuclear engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Arlington and the surrounding Virginia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Arlington may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Nuclear Engineer Jobs in Arlington
Browse open nuclear engineer positions in Arlington, VA: