Registered Nurse Salary in Virginia
The median registered nurse salary in Virginia is $86,093 per year, which is 6.0% above the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for registered nurse pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $86,093 per year, registered nurses in Virginia earn $4,873 more than the national median of $81,220.
Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning registered nurse salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Virginia is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $60,844, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $128,048 — a $67,204 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 $108,835.
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for registered nurses across the country.
Registered Nurse Salary in Virginia by Experience
In Virginia, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $61,480, while experienced professionals earn up to $121,900 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Virginia
| Percentile | VA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $60,844 |
| 25th Percentile | $70,808 |
| Median (50th) | $86,093 |
| 75th Percentile | $107,166 |
| 90th Percentile | $128,048 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in Virginia
The largest employment areas for registered nurses 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 Registered Nurse in Virginia
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Virginia
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Registered Nurses who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $35,807 over your career trajectory.
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