How to Become a Civil Engineers in Virginia
Civil Engineers in Virginia earn a median salary of $96,210/year, which is 3% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.2%. After taxes and rent, a civil engineers takes home approximately $4,509/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a civil engineers can afford in Virginia
Becoming a civil engineers in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Civil Engineers positions in Virginia typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many civil engineers 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.
Obtain Virginia licensure or certification
Virginia may require specific licensing or professional certification for civil engineerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Virginia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Virginia
Virginia employs 11,030 civil engineers. The highest concentrations are in Winchester and Staunton-Stuarts Draft.
Civil Engineers salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winchester | $104K | $49.85/hr | 150 |
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $96K | $46.2/hr | 80 |
| Charlottesville | $95K | $45.87/hr | 150 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $94K | $45.22/hr | 2,160 |
| Richmond | $89K | $42.75/hr | 1,720 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $87K | $41.77/hr | 130 |
| Roanoke | $85K | $41.08/hr | 270 |
| Lynchburg | $81K | $38.86/hr | 230 |
| Harrisonburg | $80K | $38.45/hr | 60 |
Civil Engineers salary range in Virginia
Civil Engineers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a civil engineers make in Virginia?▼
The median civil engineers salary in Virginia is $96,210 per year ($46.26/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $99,590. Salaries range from $61,610 to $145,480.
What are the requirements to become a civil engineers in Virginia?▼
Civil Engineers 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 civil engineers afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $96,210, a civil engineers in Virginia would take home approximately $5,921/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 23.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for civil engineers in Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for civil engineers in Virginia are Winchester ($103,680), Staunton-Stuarts Draft ($96,100), Charlottesville ($95,410). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for civil engineers?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.2%. On a $96,210 salary, this means roughly $5,016/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.