How to Become a Cost Estimators in Virginia
Cost Estimators in Virginia earn a median salary of $75,970/year, which is 1% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.1%. After taxes and rent, a cost estimators takes home approximately $3,420/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a cost estimators can afford in Virginia
Becoming a cost estimators in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Cost Estimators 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 cost estimators 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 cost estimatorss. 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 6,570 cost estimators. The highest concentrations are in Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk and Charlottesville.
Cost Estimators salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $78K | $37.71/hr | 1,600 |
| Charlottesville | $75K | $35.92/hr | 140 |
| Harrisonburg | $70K | $33.86/hr | 120 |
| Richmond | $69K | $33.34/hr | 1,150 |
| Roanoke | $67K | $32.41/hr | 250 |
| Lynchburg | $65K | $31.2/hr | 180 |
| Winchester | $64K | $30.78/hr | 140 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $63K | $30.34/hr | 90 |
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $58K | $27.66/hr | 60 |
Cost Estimators salary range in Virginia
Cost Estimators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cost estimators make in Virginia?▼
The median cost estimators salary in Virginia is $75,970 per year ($36.52/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $77,070. Salaries range from $44,880 to $119,610.
What are the requirements to become a cost estimators in Virginia?▼
Cost Estimators 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 cost estimators afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $75,970, a cost estimators in Virginia would take home approximately $4,832/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 29.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for cost estimators in Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for cost estimators in Virginia are Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk ($78,430), Charlottesville ($74,700), Harrisonburg ($70,420). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for cost estimators?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.1%. On a $75,970 salary, this means roughly $3,852/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.