Physician Assistant Salary in Virginia
The median physician assistant salary in Virginia is $133,571 per year, which is 6.0% above the national median of $126,010.
Physician Assistant Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for physician assistant compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for physician assistant pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $133,571 per year, physician assistants in Virginia earn $7,561 more than the national median of $126,010.
Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning physician assistant salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Virginia is significant: physician assistants at the 10th percentile earn $89,040, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $184,440 — a $95,400 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 $168,853.
Nationally, physician assistant employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Virginia and beyond.
Physician Assistant Salary in Virginia by Experience
In Virginia, an entry-level physician assistant earns around $93,280, while experienced professionals earn up to $171,720 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 | $89,040 |
| 25th Percentile | $112,360 |
| Median (50th) | $133,571 |
| 75th Percentile | $160,060 |
| 90th Percentile | $184,440 |
Physician Assistant Salary by City in Virginia
The largest employment areas for physician assistants 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 Physician Assistant in Virginia
Education
Most physician assistant positions require a master's degree. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Virginia
Nationally, physician assistant employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Physician Assistants who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $38,149 over your career trajectory.
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