How to Become a Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health in Virginia
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Healths in Virginia earn a median salary of $78,140/year, which is 2% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.1%. After taxes and rent, a environmental scientists and specialists, including health takes home approximately $3,536/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a environmental scientists and specialists, including health can afford in Virginia
Becoming a environmental scientists and specialists, including health in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health 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 environmental scientists and specialists, including health 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 environmental scientists and specialists, including healths. 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 2,700 environmental scientists and specialists, including healths. The highest concentrations are in Charlottesville and Richmond.
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlottesville | $80K | $38.63/hr | 60 |
| Richmond | $78K | $37.57/hr | 830 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $76K | $36.76/hr | 400 |
| Roanoke | $73K | $34.94/hr | 140 |
| Harrisonburg | $71K | $33.99/hr | 60 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $67K | $32.02/hr | 40 |
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health salary range in Virginia
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a environmental scientists and specialists, including health make in Virginia?▼
The median environmental scientists and specialists, including health salary in Virginia is $78,140 per year ($37.57/hr). This is 2% below the national median of $80,060. Salaries range from $56,310 to $128,940.
What are the requirements to become a environmental scientists and specialists, including health in Virginia?▼
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health 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 environmental scientists and specialists, including health afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $78,140, a environmental scientists and specialists, including health in Virginia would take home approximately $4,948/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for environmental scientists and specialists, including healths in Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for environmental scientists and specialists, including healths in Virginia are Charlottesville ($80,350), Richmond ($78,140), Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk ($76,460). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for environmental scientists and specialists, including healths?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.1%. On a $78,140 salary, this means roughly $3,977/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.