How to Become a Clergy in Virginia
Clergies in Virginia earn a median salary of $56,170/year, which is 8% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~4.8%. After taxes and rent, a clergy takes home approximately $2,293/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a clergy can afford in Virginia
Becoming a clergy in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Clergy positions in Virginia typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many clergy 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 clergys. 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 1,400 clergies. The highest concentrations are in Charlottesville and Roanoke.
Clergy salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlottesville | $60K | $28.63/hr | 50 |
| Roanoke | $59K | $28.13/hr | 60 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $58K | $28.05/hr | 270 |
| Richmond | $57K | $27.63/hr | 310 |
| Lynchburg | $56K | $26.92/hr | 30 |
Clergy salary range in Virginia
Clergy careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a clergy make in Virginia?▼
The median clergy salary in Virginia is $56,170 per year ($27/hr). This is 8% below the national median of $60,820. Salaries range from $30,680 to $82,040.
What are the requirements to become a clergy in Virginia?▼
Clergy positions in Virginia typically require Master'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 clergy afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $56,170, a clergy in Virginia would take home approximately $3,705/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 38.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for clergies in Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for clergies in Virginia are Charlottesville ($59,550), Roanoke ($58,510), Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk ($58,340). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for clergies?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.8%. On a $56,170 salary, this means roughly $2,714/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.