Psychiatrist Salary in Virginia
The median psychiatrist salary in Virginia is $270,968 per year, which is 6.0% above the national median of $255,630.
Psychiatrist Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for psychiatrist compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for psychiatrist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $270,968 per year, psychiatrists in Virginia earn $15,338 more than the national median of $255,630.
Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning psychiatrist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Virginia is significant: psychiatrists at the 10th percentile earn $127,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $424,000 — a $296,800 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 $342,544.
Nationally, psychiatrist employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for psychiatrists across the country.
Psychiatrist Salary in Virginia by Experience
In Virginia, an entry-level psychiatrist earns around $132,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $408,100 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.
You May Qualify for Premium Rewards
Professionals earning $270,968+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.
View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Virginia
| Percentile | VA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $127,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $185,500 |
| Median (50th) | $270,968 |
| 75th Percentile | $349,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $424,000 |
Psychiatrist Salary by City in Virginia
The largest employment areas for psychiatrists 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 Psychiatrist in Virginia
Education
Most psychiatrist positions require a doctoral degree. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Virginia
Nationally, psychiatrist employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Psychiatrists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $137,132 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Psychiatrist Roles in Virginia?
Get matched with recruiters hiring psychiatrists in Virginia at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: