Data Scientists in Virginia
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Virginia | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $126,070 | $112,590 | +12.0% vs US |
| State Rank | #6 of 51 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 6,200 jobs | 233,440 jobs | 2.7% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Virginia
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $78,570 | $37.78 |
| 25th Percentile | $94,630 | $45.49 |
| Median | $126,070 | $60.61 |
| 75th Percentile | $165,370 | $79.51 |
| 90th Percentile | $197,430 | $94.92 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Data Scientists in Virginia in 2026?
With a median salary of $126,070 in Virginia and a 2022–2024 salary trend of -4.8%, data scientists remain an established career option.
How can data scientists increase their salary in Virginia?
Data Scientists in Virginia can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: Virginia currently ranks #6 out of 51 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Data Scientists in Virginia?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation | $206,170 |
| Transit and Ground Passenger Transportation | $206,170 |
| Taxi and Limousine Service | $206,170 |
How are Data Scientists paid in Virginia compared to the national average?
The median salary for Data Scientists in Virginia is $126,070, which is 12.0% above the national median of $112,590.