Fairfax vs Richmond: Cloud Architect Salary (2026)
Compare cloud architect salaries between Fairfax, VA and Richmond, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fairfax, VA | Richmond, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $124,046 | $143,454▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $59.63 | $68.97▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,621 | $85,833▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $97,809 | $113,666▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $151,038 | $180,225▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $175,656 | $198,034▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 870▲ |
Verdict
Richmond, VA offers better overall compensation for cloud architects, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Fairfax.
The salary gap between Fairfax and Richmond is $19,408 (15.65%). Richmond's median is -3.61% compared to the US national median of $148,828.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fairfax spans $99,035,Richmond spans $112,201. Richmond has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced cloud architects.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Richmond ($146,594 effective) pays 21.96% more than Fairfax ($120,200 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fairfax if…
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Richmond if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($143,454/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($198,034)
- ✓Larger job market (870 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $146,594)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, cloud architect salaries in Fairfax grew -18.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 24.6% growth in Richmond over the same period.
Fairfax, VA
$147,788 (2024) → $120,667 (2025)
Richmond, VA
$112,010 (2019) → $139,547 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fairfax, VA
Richmond, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays cloud architects more: Fairfax or Richmond?
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Written by Maria Gonzalez, MS
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in cloud architecture. She specializes in cloud security and compliance. She works in a technology consulting firm.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.80% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Maria Gonzalez, MS, a licensed cloud architect with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov