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METRO DATA PROFILE · 2024

Computer Programmers salary in Richmond, Virginia

Metro-level median, range, and employment from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics for the Richmond metropolitan area. Skills and task data from O*NET. State and national figures shown for context.

Adrian Serafin, founder and editor of RateOrchardBy Adrian SerafinFounderUpdated April 30, 2026
Median annual$90,530
Mean annual$96,270
Range (10th to 90th)$51,240 to $136,300
Richmond, Virginia employment380
State vs national-8.1% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Richmond computer programmers fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)

10TH$51,24025TH$66,220MEDIAN$90,53075TH$119,69090TH$136,300

The middle 50% of workers earn between $66,220 and $119,690, with a median of $90,530.

Typical entry

  • Education

    Bachelor's degree

  • Experience

    None

  • On-the-job training

    None

Top skills (O*NET)

  • Computers and Electronics

    Knowledge

    4.9 / 5
  • Programming

    Technical

    4.8 / 5
  • Written Comprehension

    Ability

    4.0 / 5
  • Oral Comprehension

    Ability

    3.9 / 5
  • Near Vision

    Ability

    3.9 / 5
  • Critical Thinking

    Cross-functional

    3.8 / 5
  • Active Listening

    Basic skill

    3.8 / 5
  • Complex Problem Solving

    Technical

    3.8 / 5

Common tasks (O*NET)

  1. 01

    Write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs, using workflow chart and diagram, and applying knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, and symbolic logic.

  2. 02

    Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced.

  3. 03

    Perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.

  4. 04

    Write, update, and maintain computer programs or software packages to handle specific jobs such as tracking inventory, storing or retrieving data, or controlling other equipment.

  5. 05

    Consult with managerial, engineering, and technical personnel to clarify program intent, identify problems, and suggest changes.

  6. 06

    Conduct trial runs of programs and software applications to be sure they will produce the desired information and that the instructions are correct.

  7. 07

    Prepare detailed workflow charts and diagrams that describe input, output, and logical operation, and convert them into a series of instructions coded in a computer language.

  8. 08

    Compile and write documentation of program development and subsequent revisions, inserting comments in the coded instructions so others can understand the program.

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Other metros in Virginia

How the Richmond metro compares to other major Virginia metro areas for computer programmers.

Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Computer Programmers in Richmond, Virginia?
According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Computer Programmers in the Richmond metropolitan area is $90,530.
Does Richmond pay more than the Virginia state average for Computer Programmers?
The Richmond metro median is -19.1% versus the Virginia state median of $111,860.
How does Richmond compare to the national median for Computer Programmers?
The Richmond metro median is -8.1% versus the BLS national figure of $98,561.
What is the salary range for Computer Programmers in Richmond?
BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $51,240 and the 90th-percentile at $136,300 for the Richmond metro area.
What education is required for Computer Programmers?
BLS lists the typical entry-level education as Bachelor's degree. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.
Disclaimer

Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the Richmond CBSA boundary for the reference year shown and may not match individual offers, employer-specific ranges, or current market conditions. Confirm with a licensed professional before making career or compensation decisions.