Software Engineer Salary in Richmond
2026 compensation data for Software Engineer positions in Richmond, VA. Ranges from $74,000 (entry-level) to $214,000 (senior). Median: $133,000.
Median (Mid)
$133,000
$63.94/hr
vs National
+4%
US: $128,000
COL Index
100
vs US avg = 100
Senior Max
$214,000
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) | $74,000 | $90,000 | $109,000 | $43.27/hr |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $109,000 | $133,000 | $157,000 | $63.94/hr |
| Senior (6+ yrs) | $152,000 | $181,000 | $214,000 | $87.02/hr |
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A mid-level software engineer earning $133,000 in Richmond has the same buying power as $133,000 in an average US city, after adjusting for the local cost of living (COL index 100).
Cost of living comparisons use a base of 100 (US national average). Higher index = higher housing, transport, and consumer prices.
About Software Engineer Salaries in Richmond
Design, build, and maintain software systems across the full stack. This page covers software engineer compensation specifically in Richmond, VA.
The median software engineer salary in Richmond, VA is $133,000 for mid-level professionals, which is 4% above the national median. With a cost of living index of 100 (national average = 100), Richmond offers an affordable cost of living, making these salaries stretch further.
Entry-level software engineers in Richmond can expect to earn between $74,000 and $109,000 (about $43.27/hour), while senior professionals with 6+ years of experience earn up to $214,000 ($214K annually, or about $102.88/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 Richmond.
Frequently Asked Questions: Software Engineer Salary in Richmond
What is the average Software Engineer salary in Richmond?+
The average Software Engineer salary in Richmond is $133,000 for a mid-level professional (3–5 years of experience). Entry-level pay starts around $90,000 and senior-level pay reaches $181,000.
How much does an entry-level software engineer make in Richmond?+
Entry-level software engineers in Richmond earn between $74,000 and $109,000, with a median of $90,000 per year (about $43.27/hour).
What is the hourly rate for a Software Engineer in Richmond?+
Based on a 2,080-hour work year, a Software Engineer in Richmond earns roughly $43.27/hour at entry-level, $63.94/hour at mid-level, and $87.02/hour at senior-level.
Is the Software Engineer salary in Richmond higher than the US average?+
Yes — Software Engineer salaries in Richmond are about 4% higher than the US national median of $128,000.
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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