How to Become a Dental Hygienists in Virginia
Dental Hygienists in Virginia earn a median salary of $98,880/year, which is 5% above the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.2%. After taxes and rent, a dental hygienists takes home approximately $4,653/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a dental hygienists can afford in Virginia
Becoming a dental hygienists in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Dental Hygienists positions in Virginia typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many dental hygienists 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 dental hygienistss. 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 3,580 dental hygienists. The highest concentrations are in Staunton-Stuarts Draft and Richmond.
Dental Hygienists salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $99K | $47.55/hr | 50 |
| Richmond | $98K | $47.13/hr | 550 |
| Charlottesville | $97K | $46.54/hr | 130 |
| Harrisonburg | $96K | $46.01/hr | 90 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $95K | $45.72/hr | 920 |
| Winchester | $93K | $44.8/hr | 90 |
| Lynchburg | $90K | $43.23/hr | 100 |
| Roanoke | $83K | $39.75/hr | 130 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $81K | $38.96/hr | 80 |
Dental Hygienists salary range in Virginia
Dental Hygienists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dental hygienists make in Virginia?▼
The median dental hygienists salary in Virginia is $98,880 per year ($47.54/hr). This is 5% above the national median of $94,260. Salaries range from $79,980 to $121,950.
What are the requirements to become a dental hygienists in Virginia?▼
Dental Hygienists positions in Virginia typically require Associate'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 dental hygienists afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $98,880, a dental hygienists in Virginia would take home approximately $6,065/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 23.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for dental hygienists in Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for dental hygienists in Virginia are Staunton-Stuarts Draft ($98,900), Richmond ($98,020), Charlottesville ($96,810). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for dental hygienists?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.2%. On a $98,880 salary, this means roughly $5,169/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.