How to Become a Opticians, Dispensing in Virginia
Opticians, Dispensings in Virginia earn a median salary of $54,320/year, which is 17% above the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~4.8%. After taxes and rent, a opticians, dispensing takes home approximately $2,178/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a opticians, dispensing can afford in Virginia
Becoming a opticians, dispensing in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Opticians, Dispensing 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 opticians, dispensing 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 opticians, dispensings. 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 2,500 opticians, dispensings. The highest concentrations are in Charlottesville and Harrisonburg.
Opticians, Dispensing salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlottesville | $60K | $28.7/hr | 100 |
| Harrisonburg | $59K | $28.5/hr | 50 |
| Winchester | $54K | $26.06/hr | 40 |
| Richmond | $52K | $25/hr | 410 |
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $51K | $24.69/hr | 40 |
| Roanoke | $51K | $24.65/hr | 80 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $50K | $24.16/hr | 620 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $48K | $23.03/hr | 30 |
| Lynchburg | $45K | $21.66/hr | 70 |
Opticians, Dispensing salary range in Virginia
Opticians, Dispensing careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a opticians, dispensing make in Virginia?▼
The median opticians, dispensing salary in Virginia is $54,320 per year ($26.11/hr). This is 17% above the national median of $46,560. Salaries range from $36,970 to $75,200.
What are the requirements to become a opticians, dispensing in Virginia?▼
Opticians, Dispensing 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 opticians, dispensing afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $54,320, a opticians, dispensing in Virginia would take home approximately $3,590/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 39.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for opticians, dispensings in Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for opticians, dispensings in Virginia are Charlottesville ($59,700), Harrisonburg ($59,280), Winchester ($54,200). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for opticians, dispensings?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.8%. On a $54,320 salary, this means roughly $2,607/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.