Public Relations Specialist Salary in Arlington, Virginia
The median public relations specialist salary in Arlington, VA is $89,021 per year, which is 32.0% above the national median and 26.9% above the Virginia state average.
Public Relations Specialist Pay in Arlington: What to Expect (2026)
Arlington offers a median public relations specialist salary of $89,021, which is $18,883 above the Virginia state average of $70,138. Compared to the national median of $67,440, 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 $89,021 salary has an effective purchasing power of approximately $67,440. Housing, transportation, and food costs in Arlington should be factored into any relocation or job-change decision.
The salary range for public relations specialists in Arlington spans from $50,160 at the 10th percentile to $158,400 at the 90th percentile — a $108,240 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $55,440, while senior public relations specialists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $147,840. With a population of 238,643, Arlington is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Public Relations Specialist Salary in Arlington by Experience
In Arlington, an entry-level public relations specialist earns around $55,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $147,840 per year. The local cost of living index is 132% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Arlington, VA
| Percentile | Arlington |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $50,160 |
| 25th Percentile | $66,000 |
| Median (50th) | $89,021 |
| 75th Percentile | $120,120 |
| 90th Percentile | $158,400 |
Public Relations Specialist Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Public Relations Specialist in Arlington
Education
Most public relations specialist positions require a bachelor's degree. Arlington and the surrounding Virginia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, public relations specialist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Arlington may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Public Relations Specialist Jobs in Arlington
Browse open public relations specialist positions in Arlington, VA: