Overview Salaries

Salaries in Sterling, VA

Updated on Jun 10, 2026
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Salary

What is the average salary in Sterling, VA?

The average salary in Sterling, VA is $71,444 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Sterling, VA, showing an average salary of $71,444 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Sterling, VA, showing an average salary of $5,954 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Sterling, VA, showing an average salary of $1,374 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Sterling, VA, showing an average salary of $34 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Job seekers in Sterling, VA, can look forward to a competitive average yearly salary of $71,444. This figure reflects the various job sectors and roles available in the area. High-paying jobs often come from finance, technology, and healthcare sectors, offering great earning potential for those with the right skills and experience.


The salary distribution in Sterling shows a broad range of earnings. The largest percentage, 32.01%, falls within the $29,000 to $44,364 range, indicating many mid-level positions available. Other significant percentages earn between $59,727 and $198,000, highlighting the presence of higher-paying roles. With a variety of salary levels, there are opportunities for different career stages and skill sets.

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What are the best paying jobs in Sterling, VA?

Job seekers in Sterling, VA, have access to several high-paying positions. The highest earners work as Quality Assurance Specialists, earning an average salary of $157,576. Following closely are Systems Engineers, with an average salary of $151,896. These jobs offer competitive pay and often include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. Other top-paying roles in the area include Software Engineers, with an average salary of $133,711, and Dental Hygienists, with an average of $121,648. Engineers and Speech Language Pathologists also earn well, averaging $121,115 and $116,517, respectively. These roles demand specialized skills but provide excellent financial rewards. Job seekers interested in these positions should focus on building the necessary qualifications and experience.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Sterling, VA, highlighting Quality Assurance Specialist with the highest at $157,576 and Outside Sales Representative with the lowest at $103,195.

  1. Quality Assurance Specialist
    Average Salary: $157,576
    In this role, you will help ensure products meet high standards. Companies like Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin rely on these professionals. Testing and quality control are key parts of the job.
    Find Quality Assurance Specialist jobs in Sterling, VA


  2. Systems Engineer
    Average Salary: $151,896
    Systems engineers design and manage complex systems. They work for companies like Booz Allen Hamilton and CACI International. They focus on integrating hardware and software to meet client needs.
    Find Systems Engineer jobs in Sterling, VA


  3. Software Engineer
    Average Salary: $133,711
    These professionals create and improve software applications. They work for tech firms in the area. They often write code, test software, and fix bugs. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft are hiring in this field.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Sterling, VA


  4. Dental Hygienist
    Average Salary: $121,648
    This role involves cleaning teeth and examining mouths. You will work in dental practices to help patients maintain oral health. Careington and Delta Dental are local companies hiring for this position.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Sterling, VA


  5. Engineer
    Average Salary: $121,115
    Engineers design and develop systems and products. They work for companies like BAE Systems and General Dynamics. This role involves problem-solving and applying scientific principles.
    Find Engineer jobs in Sterling, VA


  6. Speech Language Pathologist
    Average Salary: $116,517
    This profession helps patients with communication and swallowing. They work in hospitals and clinics. They create treatment plans and provide therapy to those in need. Local healthcare facilities are looking to fill this role.
    Find Speech Language Pathologist jobs in Sterling, VA


  7. Technical Project Lead
    Average Salary: $112,452
    This position involves managing technical projects. They ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. They work for tech companies and consulting firms. Leading teams and coordinating tasks are crucial in this role.
    Find Technical Project Lead jobs in Sterling, VA


  8. Occupational Therapist
    Average Salary: $106,366
    They help patients regain skills needed for daily activities. They work in rehabilitation centers and hospitals. Creating personalized treatment plans is a key part of the job. Local healthcare providers are hiring for this role.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Sterling, VA


  9. Programmer
    Average Salary: $105,873
    Programmers write, test, and maintain code for software applications. They work for tech companies and startups. Writing clean and efficient code is essential in this role.
    Find Programmer jobs in Sterling, VA


  10. Outside Sales Representative
    Average Salary: $103,195
    This role involves selling products to customers. They work for companies like Salesforce and IBM. Building relationships and meeting sales targets are important. Meeting with clients and understanding their needs is a daily task.
    Find Outside Sales Representative jobs in Sterling, VA

What are the best paying jobs in Sterling, VA without a degree?

Job seekers in Sterling, VA, can find good-paying roles that do not require a degree. A concrete finisher tops the list with an average salary of $61,211 annually. Other well-paying jobs include canvassers, irrigation technicians, and service team members, offering salaries ranging from $34,303 to $59,853 per year. These positions provide solid income opportunities for those looking to enter the workforce without a college degree.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Sterling, VA without a degree, highlighting Concrete Finisher with the highest at $61,211 and Barista with the lowest at $34,303.

  1. Concrete Finisher
    Average Salary: $61,211
    Shape and smooth concrete for buildings. Work at construction sites, often outdoors. Companies often need these skills for building projects.
    Find Concrete Finisher jobs in Sterling, VA


  2. Canvasser
    Average Salary: $59,853
    Talk to people to get support. Walk neighborhoods or wait at public spots. It's about good communication and engagement with the community.
    Find Canvasser jobs in Sterling, VA


  3. Irrigation Technician
    Average Salary: $57,988
    Install and fix water systems for lawns and plants. Work with landscaping teams to keep areas looking nice. Often work outdoors in different weather.
    Find Irrigation Technician jobs in Sterling, VA


  4. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $41,549
    Help customers in stores. Stock shelves and assist with purchases. Great for those who enjoy serving others and working in a busy place.
    Find Service Team Member jobs in Sterling, VA


  5. Landscaper
    Average Salary: $39,833
    Work on gardens and outdoor spaces. Plant flowers, trim hedges, and maintain lawns. Combines hands-on work with a love for nature.
    Find Landscaper jobs in Sterling, VA


  6. Server
    Average Salary: $37,302
    Take orders and serve food in restaurants. Work in a fast-paced environment and need good people skills. Requires the ability to work well under pressure.
    Find Server jobs in Sterling, VA


  7. Floor Tech
    Average Salary: $36,675
    Clean and maintain floors in various settings. Use machines and cleaning tools. Great job for those who like to keep areas tidy and presentable.
    Find Floor Tech jobs in Sterling, VA


  8. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $36,468
    Wash dishes and kitchen tools. Work in restaurants and busy kitchens. Need to be detail-oriented and able to handle repetitive tasks.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Sterling, VA


  9. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $35,464
    Prepare ingredients and cook food quickly. Work in fast-paced environments. Requires precision and the ability to work well in a team.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Sterling, VA


  10. Barista
    Average Salary: $34,303
    Make coffee and other drinks in cafes. Need to know different brewing methods. Great for those who enjoy working with people and making delicious beverages.
    Find Barista jobs in Sterling, VA

Which companies offer the top salaries in Sterling, VA?

Companies in Sterling, VA, offer a variety of salaries, making it a prime location for job seekers seeking competitive pay. BAE Systems USA stands out with an average salary of $173,650, providing a top-tier earning potential for employees. Raytheon and CACI International follow closely with average salaries of $147,537 and $144,747, respectively, making them attractive options for those seeking solid compensation. Other notable companies include Collins Aerospace, Peraton, and General Dynamics Information Technology, each offering average salaries ranging from $134,376 to $106,298. Amazon.com, Loudoun County, VA, and Rosendin Electric also provide strong salaries, with figures above $100,000. Rossen Landscape offers an average salary of $82,030, which is still a respectable amount for the region. Job seekers in Sterling, VA, can find many opportunities with competitive pay across various industries.
Graph displaying company salaries in Sterling, VA, highlighting BAE Systems USA with the highest at $173,650 and Rossen Landscape with the lowest at $82,030.

  1. BAE Systems USA
    Average Salary: $173,650
    BAE Systems USA is a global defense, security, and aerospace company. They work on cutting-edge technology in areas like aircraft, ships, and land systems.


  2. Raytheon
    Average Salary: $147,537
    Raytheon is a leader in the defense and aerospace industry. They focus on creating advanced technology for military and government customers.


  3. CACI International
    Average Salary: $144,747
    CACI International is a major player in the government contracting sector. They provide IT and professional services to help governments operate more efficiently.


  4. Collins Aerospace
    Average Salary: $134,376
    Collins Aerospace designs and builds aircraft systems for commercial and government aircraft. They focus on innovation to improve air travel and defense systems.


  5. Peraton
    Average Salary: $119,598
    Peraton is a technology-driven defense and government services company. They specialize in intelligence, cybersecurity, and engineering services.


  6. General Dynamics Information Technology
    Average Salary: $106,298
    General Dynamics Information Technology offers IT solutions and services to the U.S. government. They focus on improving IT efficiency and security.


  7. Rosendin Electric
    Average Salary: $100,729
    Rosendin Electric is a top electrical construction company. They work on projects ranging from power plants to communication systems.


  8. Amazon.com
    Average Salary: $95,102
    Amazon is a global e-commerce and technology giant. They offer a wide range of products and services, from online shopping to cloud computing.


  9. Loudoun County, VA
    Average Salary: $87,746
    Loudoun County is a local government entity providing services to the community. They offer various career opportunities in public administration, education, and law enforcement.


  10. Rossen Landscape
    Average Salary: $82,030
    Rossen Landscape is a landscaping and irrigation company. They provide maintenance and design services for commercial and residential properties.

How does the cost of living in Sterling, VA compare to the national average?

Sterling, VA, stands out with a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs are 45% higher, while groceries and utilities remain close to the national average, at 15% and 5% higher respectively. Healthcare and miscellaneous expenses, however, are 20% and 30% higher, further underscoring the elevated living costs in Sterling. Job seekers should consider these factors when evaluating relocation options. Understanding the cost of living helps in making informed decisions about salaries and budget planning. Comparatively, Sterling’s higher index values may impact overall affordability and lifestyle choices.
Cost of living comparison graph for Sterling, VA vs. Nationwide: housing 45% higher, groceries 15% higher, utilities 5% higher, transportation 10% higher, healthcare 20% higher, miscellaneous 30% higher.

Sterling, VA, presents a higher cost of living compared to the nationwide average of 100. Housing costs are notably higher, standing at 145, which means they are 45% above the national average. This significant increase can affect potential residents' decisions, particularly for those who spend a large portion of their income on housing.


Sterling’s grocery prices also reflect a higher cost of living, sitting at 115, which is 15% over the national average. Utilities, though slightly above average at 105 (5% higher), and transportation costs at 110 (10% higher) also contribute to the overall increased expenses. Additionally, healthcare costs are 20% above the national average at 120, and miscellaneous expenses, including entertainment and personal care, are 30% higher at 130. These factors combine to paint a clear picture of a higher overall cost of living in Sterling, VA.

There are 923 job openings in Sterling, VA, today!

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Sterling, VA
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