Sam SmithRichmond, Virginia, stands as one of the South’s most economically balanced metropolitan areas — blending historic charm with a modern, diversified economy. As the state capital, it houses major government institutions, Fortune 500 headquarters like Altria, CarMax, and Dominion Energy, and robust industries in finance, healthcare, law, and technology. The city’s affordable cost of living and central East Coast location also attract top professionals seeking long-term stability.
This list of the money spinning jobs in Richmond draws from data by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Virginia Employment Commission, and salary aggregators such as Glassdoor, Indeed, and LinkedIn Salary. Figures represent estimated annual gross pay ranges (USD) for 2025, adjusted to reflect the Richmond metropolitan market, including Henrico, Chesterfield, and surrounding counties.
Highest Paying Jobs In Richmond VA
1. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
CEOs in Richmond oversee major corporations like Dominion Energy, CarMax, and Altria, guiding strategic vision, financial growth, and stakeholder relations. They manage executive teams and drive profitability through mergers, acquisitions, and expansion strategies. Because Richmond serves as both a financial and government hub, many CEOs interact with public agencies and industry regulators. The high accountability and broad leadership scope command average salaries well above $250,000 annually, especially in energy, healthcare, and finance sectors.
2. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
CFOs manage corporate finances, investment portfolios, and risk planning for major Richmond enterprises. They oversee budgeting, auditing, and capital allocation, ensuring liquidity and growth stability. Richmond’s concentration of Fortune 500 firms and financial institutions such as Capital One and Markel drives strong compensation packages for finance executives. Most CFOs possess extensive backgrounds in accounting, investment, and strategic finance, often earning between $200,000 and $300,000 annually, plus performance bonuses tied to profitability and shareholder value.
3. Chief Medical Officer (CMO)
Chief Medical Officers in Richmond work within major healthcare systems like VCU Health, Bon Secours, and HCA Virginia. They coordinate clinical operations, oversee medical compliance, and implement patient-care standards across large networks. Their roles combine medical expertise with executive management, influencing policy and quality control. Given the size of Richmond’s hospital systems and academic medical centers, CMOs earn between $250,000 and $400,000 annually, reflecting their responsibility for clinical excellence and organizational outcomes.
4. Chief Information Officer (CIO)
CIOs oversee technology strategy, cybersecurity, and IT infrastructure across Richmond’s growing tech and financial landscape. Many work within fintech, utilities, and healthcare systems, ensuring seamless digital operations. As data security and automation rise in importance, CIOs are pivotal in modernizing enterprise systems. Typical earnings range between $190,000 and $250,000, depending on company size and complexity. Their leadership ensures businesses remain competitive, innovative, and resilient against technological disruptions or cyber threats.
5. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
Richmond’s emerging tech scene makes CTOs increasingly vital, especially within software, finance, and healthcare industries. They design technological roadmaps, manage product innovation, and lead development teams. CTOs ensure their organizations stay ahead through AI integration, cloud migration, and process automation. With demand rising for digital transformation, senior CTOs in Richmond earn between $180,000 and $250,000 annually, often supplemented with equity or bonuses linked to successful implementation and scalability of key projects.
6. Chief Legal Officer
As Richmond hosts many law firms and corporate headquarters, Chief Legal Officers manage litigation, compliance, and risk oversight at the executive level. They guide company policy, supervise legal teams, and advise on mergers, contracts, and intellectual property issues. Their work intersects with state and federal regulatory bodies, especially in finance and energy. Given the legal complexity of Richmond’s business environment, these officers earn between $200,000 and $300,000, often reflecting decades of corporate legal experience.
7. Chief Operating Officer (COO)
COOs manage organizational logistics, production, and administrative functions. In Richmond, COOs frequently oversee manufacturing, energy, and healthcare networks, balancing efficiency and operational safety. They ensure that corporate goals translate into actionable, measurable outcomes. Compensation typically exceeds $180,000, scaling higher in multi-state or international corporations. Their leadership is critical for coordinating day-to-day business continuity while maintaining profitability and adherence to regulatory standards within Virginia’s fast-evolving commercial landscape.
8. Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)
CMOs shape brand identity, advertising strategy, and customer engagement for companies across Richmond’s diverse sectors — from energy and retail to fintech and healthcare. They combine creative direction with analytics, ensuring campaigns align with market trends and company goals. Richmond’s mix of traditional industries and modern startups offers CMOs a wide scope of innovation. Salaries average between $170,000 and $230,000 annually, often complemented by performance bonuses tied to market growth or revenue gains.
9. Vice President (VP) of Operations
Vice Presidents of Operations ensure company-wide efficiency through strategic planning, workflow optimization, and cost control. In Richmond, they are especially active in manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare systems, managing supply chains and cross-departmental coordination. Their job requires balancing productivity with sustainability and compliance. Salaries range from $150,000 to $210,000, depending on industry scale. Many hold MBAs and possess decades of management experience, making them indispensable to organizational performance and long-term growth.
10. Vice President (VP) of Sales
VPs of Sales in Richmond lead regional and national sales teams for companies across retail, technology, pharmaceuticals, and financial services. They set sales strategies, negotiate major contracts, and ensure revenue goals are consistently met. The role combines leadership, analytics, and customer relationship management. In a city with both legacy corporations and fast-growing startups, these executives earn $140,000 to $200,000 annually, with significant commissions or bonuses tied directly to sales performance.
11. Anesthesiologist
Anesthesiologists are among Richmond’s highest-paid medical professionals, responsible for administering anesthesia during surgeries and monitoring patients throughout procedures. Working in major hospitals like VCU Health or HCA Virginia, they ensure patient safety, pain management, and precise dosing. The position demands extensive training, licensing, and expertise in pharmacology. Annual salaries typically exceed $300,000, reflecting the high responsibility, skill level, and critical nature of their role in both surgical and emergency settings.
12. Surgeon
Surgeons in Richmond perform complex medical procedures, ranging from trauma and orthopedic surgeries to specialized cardiovascular or neurological operations. They often practice in top-tier facilities such as VCU Medical Center or Bon Secours. Given the life-or-death precision required, surgeons command salaries between $300,000 and $500,000 annually. Their expertise extends beyond the operating room to include patient care, diagnostic evaluation, and collaboration with multidisciplinary medical teams for successful long-term recovery outcomes.
13. Psychiatrist
Richmond psychiatrists treat mental health disorders, provide therapy, and prescribe medications within hospitals, clinics, and private practices. With growing awareness of mental health issues, their services are in high demand, especially among veterans and students. Many collaborate with VCU’s medical school or correctional institutions. Their expertise bridges psychology and medicine, earning them $230,000–$300,000 annually. They play a critical role in addressing addiction, depression, and anxiety across diverse patient populations in Central Virginia.
14. Obstetrician/Gynecologist (OB/GYN)
OB/GYNs in Richmond specialize in women’s reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth. They deliver babies, perform surgeries, and manage complex reproductive conditions. Employed across hospitals and private practices, they ensure continuity of care from prenatal to postpartum stages. The city’s large healthcare systems create strong demand for experienced OB/GYNs, with salaries ranging from $240,000 to $310,000. Their critical work directly impacts family health, maternal outcomes, and women’s wellness across the Richmond metropolitan region.
15. Orthodontist
Orthodontists in Richmond design and apply corrective treatments for dental misalignment, improving both aesthetics and oral health. Operating mostly in private practices, they use advanced digital imaging and custom aligners. Given the city’s steady population and family demographics, orthodontists enjoy consistent demand. Earnings typically range from $220,000 to $300,000 annually, reflecting both technical expertise and practice ownership. Their services combine precision engineering with patient care, contributing significantly to long-term dental wellness.
16. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
These specialized surgeons perform reconstructive facial procedures, dental implants, and trauma repair. In Richmond, they often collaborate with hospitals and dental clinics, handling complex surgical cases requiring anesthesia and advanced imaging. Their blend of surgical and dental expertise makes them among the city’s best-compensated professionals, earning between $250,000 and $350,000 annually. Their work restores functionality and aesthetics, requiring both medical training and board certification in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
17. Physician (General)
General physicians in Richmond provide primary care, diagnose illnesses, and coordinate referrals across specialties. They form the backbone of community healthcare, ensuring preventive medicine and chronic disease management. Many operate within multi-clinic systems like Bon Secours or independent family practices. Salaries average $190,000 to $230,000 annually, depending on patient volume and location. Their holistic approach and accessibility make them essential to the health and continuity of Richmond’s growing population.
18. Pediatrician
Pediatricians specialize in children’s health, managing everything from routine checkups to developmental concerns. In Richmond, they serve families through major hospital networks and private practices. Their work requires empathy, patience, and detailed medical expertise. With increasing child health awareness and vaccination needs, demand remains strong. Pediatricians typically earn $180,000 to $230,000 annually, ensuring high-quality care from infancy through adolescence across both urban and suburban communities in Central Virginia.
19. Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) play a vital role in Richmond’s surgical and outpatient centers. They administer anesthesia, monitor vital signs, and support anesthesiologists during procedures. Their advanced training and independent practice authority in Virginia contribute to strong salaries — often $200,000 to $240,000 annually. CRNAs combine clinical precision with patient-centered care, ensuring safe and efficient surgeries across Richmond’s healthcare systems while helping meet rising regional demand for anesthesia professionals.
20. Podiatrist
Podiatrists treat conditions affecting the feet, ankles, and lower extremities. In Richmond, they serve athletes, diabetics, and seniors through hospitals and private clinics. Their work ranges from corrective surgeries to orthotic design and preventive care. As lifestyle-related ailments rise, podiatrists see strong patient volumes and steady income, averaging $160,000–$200,000 annually. Their expertise enhances mobility and quality of life, contributing significantly to Richmond’s overall healthcare and rehabilitation landscape.
Top 100 Highest-Paying Jobs in Richmond, Virginia (Full List)
Estimated Annual Gross Salaries (USD)
| Rank | Job Title | Estimated Salary Range (USD) | Industry / Sector |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chief Executive Officer (CEO) | $250,000 – $500,000+ | Executive / Corporate |
| 2 | Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | $200,000 – $350,000 | Finance / Executive |
| 3 | Chief Medical Officer | $250,000 – $400,000 | Healthcare / Administration |
| 4 | Chief Information Officer (CIO) | $190,000 – $250,000 | Technology / Management |
| 5 | Chief Technology Officer (CTO) | $180,000 – $250,000 | Technology / Software |
| 6 | Chief Legal Officer | $200,000 – $300,000 | Legal / Corporate |
| 7 | Chief Operating Officer (COO) | $180,000 – $250,000 | Operations / Executive |
| 8 | Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) | $170,000 – $230,000 | Marketing / Corporate |
| 9 | Vice President (VP) of Operations | $150,000 – $210,000 | Management / Operations |
| 10 | Vice President (VP) of Sales | $140,000 – $200,000 | Sales / Corporate |
| 11 | Anesthesiologist | $300,000 – $450,000 | Healthcare |
| 12 | Surgeon (All Specialties) | $300,000 – $500,000 | Healthcare |
| 13 | Psychiatrist | $230,000 – $300,000 | Healthcare |
| 14 | Obstetrician/Gynecologist (OB/GYN) | $240,000 – $310,000 | Healthcare |
| 15 | Orthodontist | $220,000 – $300,000 | Dentistry |
| 16 | Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon | $250,000 – $350,000 | Dental / Surgery |
| 17 | Physician (General) | $190,000 – $230,000 | Healthcare |
| 18 | Pediatrician | $180,000 – $230,000 | Healthcare |
| 19 | Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) | $200,000 – $240,000 | Nursing / Healthcare |
| 20 | Podiatrist | $160,000 – $200,000 | Healthcare |
| 21 | Pharmacist (Director/Manager) | $140,000 – $180,000 | Healthcare / Management |
| 22 | Law Firm Partner | $200,000 – $400,000 | Legal |
| 23 | Judge / Magistrate | $160,000 – $220,000 | Government / Legal |
| 24 | General Counsel | $180,000 – $250,000 | Legal / Corporate |
| 25 | Patent Attorney | $150,000 – $230,000 | Legal / Technology |
| 26 | Litigation Attorney (Senior) | $140,000 – $200,000 | Legal |
| 27 | Corporate Lawyer | $130,000 – $190,000 | Legal / Business |
| 28 | IT Director | $140,000 – $190,000 | Technology |
| 29 | Software Development Manager | $130,000 – $180,000 | Software / IT |
| 30 | Cloud Architect | $120,000 – $170,000 | IT / Cloud Infrastructure |
| 31 | Cybersecurity Manager / Architect | $120,000 – $180,000 | Technology / Security |
| 32 | Data Science Manager | $130,000 – $190,000 | Technology / Analytics |
| 33 | DevOps Engineer (Lead/Principal) | $115,000 – $160,000 | Software / Cloud |
| 34 | Principal Software Engineer | $120,000 – $170,000 | Software Development |
| 35 | Solutions Architect | $120,000 – $160,000 | Technology / IT Systems |
| 36 | Network Architect | $110,000 – $150,000 | IT / Telecommunications |
| 37 | IT Program Manager | $115,000 – $160,000 | Technology / Project Management |
| 38 | Vice President (VP) of Finance | $150,000 – $200,000 | Finance / Banking |
| 39 | Treasury Manager | $120,000 – $160,000 | Finance |
| 40 | Actuary (Fellow) | $130,000 – $180,000 | Finance / Insurance |
| 41 | Investment Banker | $140,000 – $200,000 | Finance / Banking |
| 42 | Portfolio Manager | $130,000 – $190,000 | Investments / Asset Management |
| 43 | Risk Management Director | $120,000 – $180,000 | Finance / Compliance |
| 44 | Compliance Director | $120,000 – $170,000 | Banking / Corporate |
| 45 | Hedge Fund Manager | $180,000 – $300,000 | Finance / Investments |
| 46 | FP&A Director | $120,000 – $160,000 | Finance / Corporate |
| 47 | Credit Analysis Manager | $110,000 – $150,000 | Banking |
| 48 | Engineering Manager | $120,000 – $180,000 | Engineering / Manufacturing |
| 49 | Principal Engineer | $110,000 – $160,000 | Engineering |
| 50 | Chemical Engineer (Senior) | $100,000 – $150,000 | Industrial / Manufacturing |
| 51 | Electrical Engineer (Lead) | $100,000 – $150,000 | Energy / Utilities |
| 52 | Nuclear Engineer | $120,000 – $170,000 | Energy / Utilities |
| 53 | Civil Engineer (Director) | $110,000 – $160,000 | Construction / Infrastructure |
| 54 | Mechanical Engineer (Principal) | $100,000 – $150,000 | Manufacturing |
| 55 | Process Engineering Manager | $110,000 – $160,000 | Manufacturing |
| 56 | Sales Director | $120,000 – $170,000 | Business / Corporate |
| 57 | Marketing Director | $120,000 – $170,000 | Marketing / Advertising |
| 58 | Supply Chain Director | $120,000 – $160,000 | Logistics / Operations |
| 59 | Human Resources Director (HRD) | $110,000 – $160,000 | HR / Corporate |
| 60 | Plant Manager | $110,000 – $150,000 | Manufacturing |
| 61 | Construction Manager | $100,000 – $150,000 | Construction |
| 62 | Real Estate Development Director | $120,000 – $180,000 | Real Estate |
| 63 | Pharmaceutical Product Manager (Senior) | $110,000 – $150,000 | Pharmaceuticals |
| 64 | Logistics Director | $100,000 – $150,000 | Supply Chain / Logistics |
| 65 | Data Scientist (Senior) | $110,000 – $160,000 | Technology / Analytics |
| 66 | Management Consultant | $100,000 – $160,000 | Consulting / Business |
| 67 | Physician Assistant (PA) | $110,000 – $140,000 | Healthcare |
| 68 | Nurse Practitioner (NP) | $110,000 – $140,000 | Healthcare |
| 69 | Dentist | $130,000 – $200,000 | Dentistry |
| 70 | Optometrist | $120,000 – $160,000 | Healthcare |
| 71 | Veterinarian (Practice Owner) | $120,000 – $170,000 | Veterinary / Healthcare |
| 72 | University Professor (Tenured) | $110,000 – $160,000 | Education |
| 73 | Air Traffic Controller | $100,000 – $150,000 | Aviation |
| 74 | Commercial Pilot | $100,000 – $180,000 | Aviation |
| 75 | Economist | $110,000 – $150,000 | Government / Corporate |
| 76 | Architectural Manager | $110,000 – $160,000 | Design / Construction |
| 77 | Power Plant Operator (Senior) | $95,000 – $130,000 | Energy |
| 78 | Marketing Manager (Senior) | $100,000 – $150,000 | Marketing |
| 79 | Supply Chain Manager | $95,000 – $140,000 | Logistics / Manufacturing |
| 80 | Quality Assurance Manager | $95,000 – $130,000 | Manufacturing / Pharma |
| 81 | Regulatory Affairs Manager | $100,000 – $150,000 | Pharmaceuticals |
| 82 | Clinical Research Manager | $95,000 – $140,000 | Healthcare / Research |
| 83 | Biostatistician | $90,000 – $130,000 | Medical Research |
| 84 | Telecommunications Network Architect | $100,000 – $150,000 | IT / Communications |
| 85 | Information Systems Security Manager | $110,000 – $160,000 | Cybersecurity |
| 86 | Database Architect | $100,000 – $150,000 | IT / Data Management |
| 87 | UX Design Manager | $95,000 – $140,000 | Technology / Design |
| 88 | Product Management Director | $120,000 – $170,000 | Technology / Business |
| 89 | Compensation & Benefits Manager | $90,000 – $130,000 | HR / Corporate |
| 90 | Tax Manager | $95,000 – $140,000 | Accounting / Finance |
| 91 | Audit Manager | $95,000 – $135,000 | Accounting / Corporate |
| 92 | Real Estate Broker (Top-Performing) | $100,000 – $180,000 | Real Estate |
| 93 | Commercial Loan Manager | $100,000 – $150,000 | Banking / Finance |
| 94 | Insurance Underwriting Director | $110,000 – $150,000 | Insurance |
| 95 | Senior Project Manager (IT or Construction) | $100,000 – $150,000 | Management / Project |
| 96 | Facilities Manager (Corporate) | $90,000 – $130,000 | Operations / Maintenance |
| 97 | Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Manager | $90,000 – $130,000 | Manufacturing / Safety |
| 98 | Materials Science Engineer (Senior) | $95,000 – $140,000 | Engineering / R&D |
| 99 | Technical Sales Manager | $95,000 – $140,000 | Engineering / Sales |
| 100 | First-Line Supervisor of Police & Detectives | $90,000 – $130,000 | Law Enforcement / Public Sector |
Closing
Richmond’s job market offers exceptional opportunities for both established executives and skilled professionals. The city’s economy rewards education, specialization, and leadership, particularly in healthcare, finance, and technology. Its blend of corporate strength, government stability, and emerging innovation makes it one of the most resilient and upwardly mobile regions in the Mid-Atlantic.
Whether you’re advancing your career locally or relocating, understanding Richmond’s top-paying roles provides a roadmap to long-term professional success in one of America’s most dynamic and livable state capitals.