What is the average salary in Sterling, VA?
Job seekers in Sterling, VA, can find a range of salary opportunities across different industries. The average yearly salary in the area is approximately $71,471. This average gives a good overview of the earning potential for many people in the workforce.
Sterling offers various industries that provide competitive salaries. Some of the top-paying sectors include:
- Management: 18.54% of the total salaries
- Business and Financial Operations: 12.87%
- Computer and Mathematical: 8.08%
- Healthcare Practitioners and Technical: 5.75%
- Architecture and Engineering: 4.65%
- Legal: 4.55%
- Life, Physical, and Social Science: 2.37%
- Community and Social Service: 1.72%
- Educational Services, and Library: 2.34%
- Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media: 2.30%
Exploring these sectors can help job seekers find roles that match their skills and career goals.
What are the best paying jobs in Sterling, VA?

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Quality Assurance Specialist
Average Salary: $156,657
This role ensures software and products meet quality standards. Working with tech companies, the job involves testing products and documenting findings. It’s a key role in maintaining the high standards of tech products.
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Systems Engineer
Average Salary: $152,117
Systems Engineers design and manage complex systems. They work with local tech firms, focusing on system integration and troubleshooting. Their expertise helps businesses run smoothly and efficiently.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $134,288
Software Engineers create applications and systems. They collaborate with various tech companies in the area. Their work is vital for developing software solutions that meet user needs.
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Dental Hygienist
Average Salary: $121,649
Dental Hygienists help keep patients' teeth clean and healthy. They work in dental clinics, providing essential oral care. Their role is crucial in maintaining public health and hygiene.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $119,638
This role involves helping patients with communication and swallowing disorders. They work in healthcare settings, providing therapy to improve patients' quality of life. Their work is both rewarding and impactful.
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Engineer
Average Salary: $119,624
Engineers design and develop products and systems. They work with a range of companies, from tech to manufacturing. Their skills are essential in creating innovative solutions and improving technology.
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Technical Project Lead
Average Salary: $109,896
Technical Project Leads manage tech projects. They coordinate teams and ensure projects meet deadlines. Their role is critical in driving projects to success in a tech-driven environment.
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Programmer
Average Salary: $109,056
Programmers write code to create software and applications. They often work for tech firms, focusing on development and maintenance. Their skills are essential for modern technology advancement.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $106,730
Occupational Therapists help patients recover from injuries and illnesses. They work in healthcare settings, providing therapy to improve patients’ daily living skills. Their work makes a significant difference in patients' lives.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $104,325
Outside Sales Representatives promote and sell products or services. They work with various companies, often in tech or healthcare. Their role involves building relationships and closing deals.
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What are the best paying jobs in Sterling, VA without a degree?

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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $60,184
This role involves preparing concrete for construction. Workers use tools to smooth and shape concrete. Opportunities exist with construction firms in the area.
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Canvasser
Average Salary: $59,853
Canvassers gather information by speaking with people. They work for political campaigns or market research firms. They visit homes and businesses to collect data.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $56,316
These professionals install and maintain irrigation systems. They work for landscaping companies or local government. They ensure plants and lawns receive proper watering.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $41,305
Service team members assist customers in various retail settings. They help find items and provide information. They work in local stores and supermarkets.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $38,596
Landscaping involves designing and maintaining outdoor spaces. Workers plant, trim, and care for plants and trees. They often work for landscaping companies.
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Server
Average Salary: $36,974
Servers take orders and serve food in restaurants. They interact with customers to ensure a good dining experience. Many work in local eateries and cafes.
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Floor Tech
Average Salary: $36,269
Floor techs clean and maintain floors in commercial spaces. They use machines and chemicals to ensure cleanliness. They work in offices, schools, and shopping centers.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $35,706
Dishwashers clean dishes and kitchen utensils. They work in busy restaurants and cafeterias. They ensure the kitchen stays clean and stocked.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $35,252
Line cooks prepare ingredients for chefs. They work quickly in fast-paced kitchen environments. They cook, chop, and prepare food for service.
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Barista
Average Salary: $34,031
Baristas prepare coffee drinks for customers. They work in coffee shops and cafes. They take orders and ensure drinks are made correctly.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Sterling, VA?

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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $173,381
BAE Systems USA is a leading technology company that provides defense and aerospace solutions. They offer a range of jobs and competitive salaries.
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BAE Systems
Average Salary: $163,854
BAE Systems is a global player in defense and aerospace. They provide innovative solutions and offer attractive salaries.
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Raytheon
Average Salary: $147,439
Raytheon is a major defense contractor. They focus on advanced technology and defense systems, offering good compensation.
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CACI International
Average Salary: $144,552
CACI International is a global leader in mission-critical IT and consulting services. They offer rewarding job opportunities.
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Collins Aerospace
Average Salary: $133,637
Collins Aerospace is a key player in the aerospace industry. They provide innovative solutions and competitive salaries.
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Strongbridge LLC
Average Salary: $126,637
Strongbridge LLC offers specialized services and solutions. They provide a supportive work environment and attractive pay.
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Peraton
Average Salary: $118,924
Peraton is a leading government contractor. They offer a range of job opportunities and competitive compensation.
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General Dynamics Information Technology
Average Salary: $104,418
General Dynamics Information Technology focuses on providing IT services to the government. They offer good salaries and benefits.
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Rosendin Electric
Average Salary: $99,864
Rosendin Electric specializes in electrical construction. They offer stable jobs and fair compensation.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $92,415
Amazon is a global e-commerce leader. They offer a variety of roles and good salaries.
How does the cost of living in Sterling, VA compare to the national average?

The cost of living index in Sterling, Virginia, reveals some significant variations from the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Sterling stand notably higher, at 145, reflecting a 45% increase compared to the national average. This suggests that individuals need to be prepared for higher housing expenses if they decide to move to Sterling. Groceries also show a higher cost, with an index of 110, indicating a 10% increase. These elevated costs make it essential for new residents to budget accordingly for these necessities.
Utilities in Sterling are priced slightly above the national average, with an index of 105, representing a 5% increase. Transportation costs also rise, with an index of 115, showing a 15% increase. These figures point to the necessity for those relocating to Sterling to account for these higher expenses in their daily budgets. Healthcare, however, remains relatively affordable, with an index of 95, which means a 5% decrease compared to the national average. This could offer some relief for those concerned about overall living costs.



