How to Become a Lawyers in Virginia
Lawyers in Virginia earn a median salary of $157,980/year, which is 5% above the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.4%. After taxes and rent, a lawyers takes home approximately $7,768/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a lawyers can afford in Virginia
Becoming a lawyers in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Lawyers positions in Virginia typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in Virginia. 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 lawyerss. 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 18,420 lawyers. The highest concentrations are in Richmond and Charlottesville.
Lawyers salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Richmond | $133K | $63.87/hr | 3,710 |
| Charlottesville | $132K | $63.58/hr | 390 |
| Roanoke | $127K | $61.19/hr | 480 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $126K | $60.7/hr | 2,600 |
| Lynchburg | $119K | $57.02/hr | 210 |
| Winchester | $106K | $51.16/hr | 140 |
| Harrisonburg | $106K | $51.03/hr | 140 |
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $100K | $47.91/hr | 80 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $97K | $46.75/hr | 160 |
Lawyers salary range in Virginia
Lawyers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a lawyers make in Virginia?▼
The median lawyers salary in Virginia is $157,980 per year ($75.95/hr). This is 5% above the national median of $151,160. Salaries range from $77,670 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a lawyers in Virginia?▼
Lawyers positions in Virginia typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Virginia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Virginia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a lawyers afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $157,980, a lawyers in Virginia would take home approximately $9,180/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 15.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for lawyers in Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for lawyers in Virginia are Richmond ($132,860), Charlottesville ($132,240), Roanoke ($127,270). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for lawyers?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.4%. On a $157,980 salary, this means roughly $8,568/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.