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How to Become a Human Resources Specialists in Virginia

Human Resources Specialists in Virginia earn a median salary of $78,580/year, which is 8% above the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.1%. After taxes and rent, a human resources specialists takes home approximately $3,560/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$79K
Median salary in Virginia
+8%
vs. national average
5.1%
State income tax
29,530
Employed in Virginia

What a human resources specialists can afford in Virginia

Gross annual salary$78,580
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.1% state tax)$4,972/mo
Median 2BR rent (Virginia)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home28.4% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$78,580/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,560/mo

Becoming a human resources specialists in Virginia

1

Meet education requirements

Human Resources Specialists 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 human resources specialists 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 human resources specialistss. 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 employs 29,530 human resources specialists. The highest concentrations are in Charlottesville and Winchester.

Human Resources Specialists salary by metro area in Virginia

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Charlottesville$77K$37.19/hr600
Winchester$77K$37.04/hr430
Richmond$75K$36.05/hr4,950
Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk$74K$35.37/hr4,380
Roanoke$66K$31.5/hr950
Harrisonburg$65K$31.3/hr270
Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford$64K$30.57/hr360
Lynchburg$62K$29.95/hr420
Staunton-Stuarts Draft$62K$29.68/hr220

Human Resources Specialists salary range in Virginia

10th percentile (entry)
$47K
25th percentile
$60K
Median (50th)
$79K
75th percentile
$105K
90th percentile (senior)
$134K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a human resources specialists make in Virginia?

The median human resources specialists salary in Virginia is $78,580 per year ($37.78/hr). This is 8% above the national median of $72,910. Salaries range from $47,040 to $133,680.

What are the requirements to become a human resources specialists in Virginia?

Human Resources Specialists 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 human resources specialists afford to live in Virginia?

At the median salary of $78,580, a human resources specialists in Virginia would take home approximately $4,972/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for human resources specialists in Virginia?

The highest paying metro areas for human resources specialists in Virginia are Charlottesville ($77,340), Winchester ($77,040), Richmond ($74,990). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Virginia have state income tax for human resources specialists?

Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.1%. On a $78,580 salary, this means roughly $4,002/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.