Skip to content
AffordMap
Arts & Media · Virginia

How to Become a Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators in Virginia

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators in Virginia earn a median salary of $58,960/year, which is 3% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~4.9%. After taxes and rent, a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators takes home approximately $2,466/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$59K
Median salary in Virginia
-3%
vs. national average
4.9%
State income tax
N/A
Employed in Virginia

What a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators can afford in Virginia

Gross annual salary$58,960
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.9% state tax)$3,878/mo
Median 2BR rent (Virginia)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home36.4% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$58,960/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,466/mo

Becoming a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in Virginia

1

Meet education requirements

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators positions in Virginia typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators 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.

3

Obtain Virginia licensure or certification

Virginia may require specific licensing or professional certification for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustratorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Virginia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Virginia

Virginia has an active job market for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators. The highest concentrations are in Richmond.

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators salary by metro area in Virginia

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Richmond$59K$28.35/hr

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators salary range in Virginia

10th percentile (entry)
$33K
25th percentile
$45K
Median (50th)
$59K
75th percentile
$78K
90th percentile (senior)
$83K
View jobs for Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
Currently hiring in Virginia
View →
More openings for Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators
Currently hiring in Virginia
View →
Build creative skills online
Design, UX, branding, and portfolio-building courses
View →
Full fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators salary breakdown in Virginia
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Virginia
After federal + 4.9% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Virginia cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators make in Virginia?

The median fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators salary in Virginia is $58,960 per year ($28.35/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $60,560. Salaries range from $33,280 to $83,200.

What are the requirements to become a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in Virginia?

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators 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 fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators afford to live in Virginia?

At the median salary of $58,960, a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in Virginia would take home approximately $3,878/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 36.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in Virginia?

The highest paying metro areas for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in Virginia are Richmond ($58,960). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Virginia have state income tax for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators?

Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.9%. On a $58,960 salary, this means roughly $2,874/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.