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Arts & Media · Virginia

How to Become a Art Directors in Virginia

Art Directors in Virginia earn a median salary of $95,680/year, which is 14% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.2%. After taxes and rent, a art directors takes home approximately $4,481/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$96K
Median salary in Virginia
-14%
vs. national average
5.2%
State income tax
860
Employed in Virginia

What a art directors can afford in Virginia

Gross annual salary$95,680
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.2% state tax)$5,893/mo
Median 2BR rent (Virginia)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home24% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$95,680/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$4,481/mo

Becoming a art directors in Virginia

1

Meet education requirements

Art Directors positions in Virginia typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many art directors positions in Virginia require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Virginia licensure or certification

Virginia may require specific licensing or professional certification for art directorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Virginia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Virginia

Virginia employs 860 art directors. The highest concentrations are in Richmond and Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk.

Art Directors salary by metro area in Virginia

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Richmond$95K$45.67/hr180
Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk$85K$40.73/hr130
Charlottesville$82K$39.4/hr40

Art Directors salary range in Virginia

10th percentile (entry)
$62K
25th percentile
$78K
Median (50th)
$96K
75th percentile
$111K
90th percentile (senior)
$129K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a art directors make in Virginia?

The median art directors salary in Virginia is $95,680 per year ($46/hr). This is 14% below the national median of $111,040. Salaries range from $61,840 to $129,050.

What are the requirements to become a art directors in Virginia?

Art Directors positions in Virginia typically require Bachelor's degree. Virginia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Virginia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a art directors afford to live in Virginia?

At the median salary of $95,680, a art directors in Virginia would take home approximately $5,893/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 24% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for art directors in Virginia?

The highest paying metro areas for art directors in Virginia are Richmond ($94,990), Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk ($84,710), Charlottesville ($81,950). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Virginia have state income tax for art directors?

Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.2%. On a $95,680 salary, this means roughly $4,985/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.