Aerospace Engineer Salary in Virginia
Based on 3K+ workers in Virginia
Median Annual Salary (VA)
$143,210
$68.85/hr
vs National Average
$130,131
+10.1% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$95K – $227K
3K employed in Virginia
Discover the latest insights into Aerospace Engineer salary in Virginia, where the median annual income stands at $143,210. This figure represents a significant opportunity, as it is 10% above the national average for the profession. With approximately 2,540 Aerospace Engineers employed in the state, Virginia offers a competitive landscape for those in this specialized field.
Several factors contribute to the earning potential for an Aerospace Engineer salary in Virginia. Experience level, specific skill sets such as propulsion or aerodynamics, and the size and type of employer all play a crucial role in determining compensation within the $95,420 to $226,950 salary range. Advanced degrees and specialized certifications can also positively impact an engineer's earning capacity.
Salary Distribution — Aerospace Engineer in Virginia
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $95,420 |
| 25th percentile | $119,830 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $143,210 |
| 75th percentile | $184,590 |
| 90th percentile | $226,950 |
Top-Paying Industries for Aerospace Engineer (U.S.)
Which industries pay Aerospace Engineers the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Aerospace Engineers in Virginia tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative and Support Services | $166,980 | 970 |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $142,630 | 10K |
| Information | $138,400 | 260 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $137,970 | 860 |
| Manufacturing | $134,960 | 33K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Aerospace Engineer in Virginia vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Virginia) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $131,830 |
| 2023 | $137,540 |
| 2024 | $132,160 |
| 2025 | $143,210 |
| 2026 (projected) | $151,803 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Virginia Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $131,830 | $112,679 |
| 2023 | $137,540 | $121,877 |
| 2024 | $132,160 | $126,293 |
| 2025 | $143,210 | $130,131 |
| 2026 (projected) | $151,803 | $137,939 |
Aerospace Engineer Salary by Experience Level in Virginia
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $119,830 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $143,210 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $184,590 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $226,950 |
Aerospace Engineer Salary in Other States
Related Aerospace Engineer Salaries in Virginia
How other high-demand occupations in Virginia compare to Aerospace Engineer ($143,210 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Aerospace Engineer | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Manager in VA | $176,160 | +23.0% | $84.69/hr |
| Chemical Engineer in VA | $136,380 | -4.8% | $65.57/hr |
| Nuclear Engineer in VA | $128,890 | -10.0% | $61.97/hr |
| Electrical Engineer in VA | $119,030 | -16.9% | $57.23/hr |
| Materials Engineer in VA | $116,720 | -18.5% | $56.12/hr |
| Biomedical Engineer in VA | $106,140 | -25.9% | $51.03/hr |
| Environmental Engineer in VA | $104,940 | -26.7% | $50.45/hr |
| Mechanical Engineer in VA | $104,180 | -27.3% | $50.09/hr |
| Industrial Engineer in VA | $102,550 | -28.4% | $49.30/hr |
| Civil Engineer in VA | $97,120 | -32.2% | $46.69/hr |
| Pharmacist in VA | $144,060 | +0.6% | $69.26/hr |
| Physicist in VA | $145,040 | +1.3% | $69.73/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for an Aerospace Engineer in Virginia?
- The median salary for an Aerospace Engineer in Virginia is $143,210 per year, which translates to approximately $69 per hour. This figure is 10.1% higher than the national average for this profession.
How much can an Aerospace Engineer in Virginia expect to earn?
- The salary range for Aerospace Engineers in Virginia typically falls between $95,420 and $226,950 annually. The median income is $143,210 per year, providing a good benchmark for potential earnings.
Is the salary for Aerospace Engineers higher in Virginia compared to the national average?
- Yes, Aerospace Engineers in Virginia earn significantly more than the national average. Their median salary of $143,210 per year is 10.1% higher than the national median, with a broad salary range from $95,420 to $226,950.
How many Aerospace Engineers are employed in Virginia?
- There are approximately 2,540 Aerospace Engineers currently employed in Virginia. The median salary for these professionals is $143,210 per year, with a wide range of potential earnings.