How Judge / Magistrates in Virginia get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Virginia compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $128,700 | $97,800 | $167,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $160,000 | $121,600 | $208,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $184,000 | $139,800 | $239,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $220,800 | $167,700 | $287,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $250,200 | $190,100 | $325,300 |
Top occupations by median pay in Virginia — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Virginia
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Judge / Magistrate salary in Virginia is $184,000 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $139,800 and the 75th at $239,200.
Pay-wise, Virginia sits +13% above the national Judge / Magistrate median ($162,800). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Judge / Magistrates (10–14 years of experience) in Virginia earn around $220,800 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $250,200 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Virginia ranks 12th for Judge / Magistrate pay. The highest-paying state pays around $228,000 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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