Psychologist Salary in Virginia
Based on 2K+ workers in Virginia
Median Annual Salary (VA)
$86,520
$41.60/hr
vs National Average
$97,188
-11.0% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$42K – $176K
2K employed in Virginia
The median psychologist salary in Virginia is $86,520 per year, which translates to an hourly rate of $42. This figure is 11.0% lower than the national average for the profession. Currently, there are approximately 2,140 psychologists employed in the state.
Several factors can influence the psychologist salary in Virginia, including the specific area of specialization, years of experience, and the type of employer. For instance, psychologists in private practice or specialized fields may earn more than those in generalist roles or public service positions. Location within Virginia can also play a role.
Salary Distribution — Psychologist in Virginia
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $41,990 |
| 25th percentile | $61,130 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $86,520 |
| 75th percentile | $110,990 |
| 90th percentile | $176,080 |
Top-Paying Industries for Psychologist (U.S.)
Which industries pay Psychologists the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Psychologists in Virginia tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative and Support Services | $131,040 | — |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $112,010 | 5K |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $101,960 | 2K |
| Health Care and Social Assistance | $99,770 | 63K |
| Educational Services | $91,550 | 3K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Psychologist in Virginia vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Virginia) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $86,520 |
| 2026 (projected) | $89,116 |
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 |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $86,520 | $97,188 |
| 2026 (projected) | $89,116 | $100,104 |
Psychologist Salary by Experience Level in Virginia
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $61,130 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $86,520 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $110,990 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $176,080 |
Psychologist Salary in Other States
Related Psychologist Salaries in Virginia
How other high-demand occupations in Virginia compare to Psychologist ($86,520 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Psychologist | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physicist in VA | $145,040 | +67.6% | $69.73/hr |
| Biochemist and Biophysicist in VA | $105,780 | +22.3% | $50.86/hr |
| Chemist in VA | $96,650 | +11.7% | $46.47/hr |
| Medical Scientist in VA | $93,620 | +8.2% | $45.01/hr |
| Geoscientist in VA | $88,390 | +2.2% | $42.50/hr |
| Urban and Regional Planner in VA | $86,030 | -0.6% | $41.36/hr |
| Environmental Scientist in VA | $82,230 | -5.0% | $39.53/hr |
| Writer and Author in VA | $85,000 | -1.8% | $40.87/hr |
| Purchasing Agent in VA | $89,210 | +3.1% | $42.89/hr |
| Instructional Coordinator in VA | $83,230 | -3.8% | $40.01/hr |
| Respiratory Therapist in VA | $82,910 | -4.2% | $39.86/hr |
| Commercial and Industrial Designer in VA | $82,230 | -5.0% | $39.53/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a psychologist in Virginia?
- The salary range for a psychologist in Virginia spans from $41,990 on the lower end to $176,080 at the highest end. The median annual salary is $86,520.
How does the psychologist salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
- Psychologist salaries in Virginia are 11.0% lower than the national average. While the national median is higher, Virginia's median salary still offers a competitive income of $86,520 annually.
How many psychologists are employed in Virginia?
- There are approximately 2,140 psychologists currently employed in Virginia. This indicates a significant presence of the profession within the state's workforce.
Is it possible for a psychologist to earn over $100,000 in Virginia?
- Yes, it is definitely possible. While the median salary is $86,520 per year, the upper end of the salary range can reach $176,080, meaning many experienced or specialized psychologists earn well over $100,000.