How much does an Astronomer make in Virginia?
An Astronomer working in Virginia earns a median salary of $128,930 per year, or about $61.99 per hour. That is 0% above the national median of $128,820 for this occupation.
Within Virginia, entry-level pay starts around $94,710 while the top 10% make $175,560 or more. The middle 50% of earners fall between $110,170 and $150,160 a year.
Astronomer salary range in Virginia
| Pay level | Annual salary | Hourly rate | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile (entry level) | $94,710 | $45.53 | |
| 25th percentile (early career) | $110,170 | $52.97 | |
| 50th percentile (median) | $128,930 | $61.99 | |
| 75th percentile (experienced) | $150,160 | $72.19 | |
| 90th percentile (top earners) | $175,560 | $84.40 |
How Virginia compares
Virginia ranks 3rd out of 5 states and territories for Astronomer pay. The top 5 best-paying states:
| Rank | State | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Maryland | $132,620 |
| 2 | Arizona | $129,020 |
| 3 | Virginia | $128,930 |
| 4 | California | $123,540 |
| 5 | Hawaii | $102,000 |
Astronomer salary in other states
Working as an Astronomer in Virginia
Nationally, about 2,000 people work as Astronomers in the United States. A doctoral or professional degree (8 or more years of higher education) is required.
Considering a move? Compare Virginia pay ($128,930) against the highest-paying state above, and weigh the difference against housing and everyday costs — a smaller paycheck in a cheaper state can stretch further.
Frequently asked questions
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← See the national Astronomer salary report