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Transportation · Virginia

How to Become a Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels in Virginia

Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels in Virginia earn a median salary of $82,470/year, which is 4% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.1%. After taxes and rent, a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels takes home approximately $3,770/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$82K
Median salary in Virginia
-4%
vs. national average
5.1%
State income tax
1,890
Employed in Virginia

What a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels can afford in Virginia

Gross annual salary$82,470
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.1% state tax)$5,182/mo
Median 2BR rent (Virginia)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home27.2% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$82,470/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,770/mo

Becoming a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels in Virginia

1

Meet education requirements

Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels positions in Virginia typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels 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 captains, mates, and pilots of water vesselss. 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 1,890 captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels. The highest concentrations are in Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk.

Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels salary by metro area in Virginia

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk$83K$39.74/hr1,730

Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels salary range in Virginia

10th percentile (entry)
$51K
25th percentile
$63K
Median (50th)
$82K
75th percentile
$110K
90th percentile (senior)
$130K
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Full captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels salary breakdown in Virginia
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Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels make in Virginia?

The median captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels salary in Virginia is $82,470 per year ($39.65/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $85,540. Salaries range from $50,700 to $129,860.

What are the requirements to become a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels in Virginia?

Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels positions in Virginia typically require No formal educational credential. Virginia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Virginia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels afford to live in Virginia?

At the median salary of $82,470, a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels in Virginia would take home approximately $5,182/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels in Virginia?

The highest paying metro areas for captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels in Virginia are Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk ($82,660). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Virginia have state income tax for captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels?

Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.1%. On a $82,470 salary, this means roughly $4,226/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.