Architect Salary in Virginia Beach
2026 compensation data for Architect positions in Virginia Beach, VA. Ranges from $49,000 (entry-level) to $150,000 (senior). Median: $83,000.
Median (Mid)
$83,000
$39.9/hr
vs National
-8%
US: $90,000
COL Index
98
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$150,000
Top of band
Salary Ranges by Experience Level
Detailed Compensation Breakdown
| Level | Annual Min | Annual Median | Annual Max | Hourly (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $49,000 | $58,000 | $68,000 | $27.88/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $68,000 | $83,000 | $102,000 | $39.9/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $99,000 | $120,000 | $150,000 | $57.69/hr |
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Practice negotiating this salaryWhat Your Salary Is Really Worth in Virginia Beach
A mid-level architect earning $83,000 in Virginia Beach has the same buying power as $85,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 98).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Architect Salaries in Virginia Beach
Design and oversee construction of buildings, balancing aesthetic vision, structural integrity, regulatory compliance, and client requirements. This page covers architect compensation specifically in Virginia Beach, VA.
The median architect salary in Virginia Beach, VA is $83,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 8% below the national median. With a cost of living index of 98 (national average = 100), Virginia Beach offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level architects in Virginia Beach can expect to earn between $49,000 and $68,000 (about $27.88/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $150,000 ($150K annually, or about $72.12/hour).
These figures represent base salary only and do not include bonuses, equity, or benefits, which can add 20–50% to total compensation — especially at technology companies and in competitive markets like Virginia Beach.
Frequently Asked Questions: Architect Salary in Virginia Beach
What is the average Architect salary in Virginia Beach?+
The average Architect salary in Virginia Beach is $83,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $58,000 and senior-level pay reaches $120,000.
How much does an entry-level architect make in Virginia Beach?+
Entry-level architects in Virginia Beach earn between $49,000 and $68,000, with a median of $58,000 per year (about $27.88/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Architect in Virginia Beach?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Architect in Virginia Beach earns roughly $27.88/hour at entry-level, $39.9/hour at mid-level, and $57.69/hour at senior-level.
Is the Architect salary in Virginia Beach higher than the US average?+
Architect salaries in Virginia Beach are about 8% below the US national median. The lower cost of living often makes take-home buying power competitive.
Does this include bonuses or equity?+
No — these figures are base salary only. Total compensation (base + bonus + equity + benefits) is typically 20–50% higher, and can be 2–3x at top technology and finance employers.
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