Software Engineer Salary in Virginia
The median software engineer salary in Virginia is $139,104 per year, which is 12.0% above the national median of $124,200.
Software Engineer Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)
Virginia ranks #12 out of 50 states for software engineer compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for software engineer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $139,104 per year, software engineers in Virginia earn $14,904 more than the national median of $124,200.
Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning software engineer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Virginia is significant: software engineers at the 10th percentile earn $83,552, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $222,410 — a $138,858 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 $173,880.
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Virginia and beyond.
Software Engineer Salary in Virginia by Experience
In Virginia, an entry-level software engineer earns around $87,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $207,200 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 | $83,552 |
| 25th Percentile | $109,984 |
| Median (50th) | $139,104 |
| 75th Percentile | $177,184 |
| 90th Percentile | $222,410 |
Software Engineer Salary by City in Virginia
The largest employment areas for software engineers 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 Software Engineer in Virginia
Education
Most software engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Virginia
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% 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 Software Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $68,096 over your career trajectory.
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