Salaries in Richmond, VA

Here’s a fun fact that’ll make you do a double-take: in 2026, Richmond’s unemployment rate is a rock-bottom 2.8%. Yet, the city’s median household income sits at $65,650—nearly $15,000 below the national average. It’s a classic case of a tight labor market that hasn’t fully translated into household wealth. But don't mistake that for a lack of opportunity.

The real story here is purchasing power. With a cost-of-living index of 98.0, you’re getting a relative bargain. That $1,365 monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment feels steep until you compare it to, say, Austin or Boston. The city’s average salary of $69,348 gets a helpful bump when you adjust for costs, pushing its real value to about $70,764. You’re not getting rich overnight, but your paycheck stretches further than you’d think.

So, who’s thriving? Richmond’s economy is powered by a mix of old and new. The state government and Virginia Commonwealth University are massive employers, but the city’s tech and biotech corridors are buzzing. You’ll also find solid work in finance and, of course, construction—this is a city that’s constantly building. A software developer earning $126,496 here feels like they’re winning, especially when you consider the adjusted take-home.

But here’s the catch: wages aren’t exactly racing ahead of costs. While the top-paying jobs are impressive, the broader wage growth is modest. This city works best for professionals in those high-demand fields I just mentioned, or for anyone who can work remotely for a coastal salary. It’s less ideal if you’re in a service role, where wages are struggling to keep pace.

The data below will break down exactly how these salaries stack up across different roles and what your earning potential might look like in this surprisingly affordable capital.