How to Become a Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in Virginia
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in Virginia earn a median salary of $67,350/year, which is 3% above the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors takes home approximately $2,956/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors can afford in Virginia
Becoming a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors 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 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors 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 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisorss. 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 8,810 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors. The highest concentrations are in Harrisonburg and Richmond.
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harrisonburg | $70K | $33.57/hr | 210 |
| Richmond | $69K | $33/hr | 1,470 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $67K | $31.98/hr | 1,750 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $63K | $30.42/hr | 350 |
| Winchester | $63K | $30.28/hr | 150 |
| Roanoke | $62K | $29.92/hr | 290 |
| Charlottesville | $62K | $29.8/hr | 450 |
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $58K | $27.79/hr | 80 |
| Lynchburg | $53K | $25.53/hr | 210 |
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary range in Virginia
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors make in Virginia?▼
The median educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors salary in Virginia is $67,350 per year ($32.38/hr). This is 3% above the national median of $65,140. Salaries range from $43,120 to $99,910.
What are the requirements to become a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Virginia?▼
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors 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 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $67,350, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Virginia would take home approximately $4,368/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 32.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in Virginia are Harrisonburg ($69,820), Richmond ($68,630), Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk ($66,520). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $67,350 salary, this means roughly $3,356/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.