Virginia is America's #1 destination for government and defense IT careers. Home to the Pentagon, CIA, and countless defense contractors, the state offers premium salaries for A+ certified professionals—especially those with or pursuing security clearances.
10-18%
Above National Avg
Medium-High
Cost of Living
$90,000+
Top Earners
+15-30%
Clearance Premium
🔐 DoD 8570/8140 Advantage: Virginia government contractors require DoD-approved certifications. CompTIA A+ combined with Security+ qualifies you for IAT Level I and II positions. Clearance-eligible candidates with these certs can earn 15-30% more than non-cleared peers.
Salary by Experience Level
Virginia salaries reflect the premium for government work and security clearances. Northern Virginia rates often match or exceed California.
Entry Level
$45,000 - $54,000
0-2 years experience
Mid-Career
$56,000 - $68,000
3-5 years experience
Senior Level
$70,000 - $85,000
6-10 years experience
Top Earners
$90,000+
10+ years or clearance
Salary by Location in Virginia
Northern Virginia dominates IT hiring, but other regions offer opportunities with lower living costs:
Year 7+: Cleared Security+ specialist/manager → $100K-$150K+
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average CompTIA A+ salary in Virginia?
The average CompTIA A+ salary in Virginia ranges from $45,000 for entry-level to $90,000+ for senior professionals in 2026. Northern Virginia and the DC metro area typically pay 15-25% above the state average.
Do I need a security clearance for IT jobs in Virginia?
Not all Virginia IT jobs require clearances, but many do. Having a clearance can increase your salary by 15-30%. CompTIA A+ combined with Security+ (required for DoD Directive 8570) makes you highly competitive for cleared positions.
Which Virginia cities have the most IT job opportunities?
Northern Virginia (Arlington, Alexandria, Tysons, Reston) has the highest concentration due to government contractors. Richmond has growing healthcare and finance IT. Virginia Beach has military base support roles.