How to Become a Physician Assistants in Virginia
Physician Assistants in Virginia earn a median salary of $135,490/year, which is 2% above the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.4%. After taxes and rent, a physician assistants takes home approximately $6,595/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a physician assistants can afford in Virginia
Becoming a physician assistants in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Physician Assistants positions in Virginia typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many physician assistants 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 physician assistantss. 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 3,530 physician assistants. The highest concentrations are in Staunton-Stuarts Draft and Richmond.
Physician Assistants salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $146K | $70.12/hr | 40 |
| Richmond | $130K | $62.53/hr | 470 |
| Roanoke | $130K | $62.38/hr | 180 |
| Charlottesville | $129K | $62.01/hr | 90 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $126K | $60.53/hr | 710 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $126K | $60.42/hr | 40 |
| Winchester | $119K | $57.19/hr | 100 |
| Lynchburg | $119K | $57.14/hr | 90 |
| Harrisonburg | $119K | $57.08/hr | 50 |
Physician Assistants salary range in Virginia
Physician Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physician assistants make in Virginia?▼
The median physician assistants salary in Virginia is $135,490 per year ($65.14/hr). This is 2% above the national median of $133,260. Salaries range from $95,250 to $186,600.
What are the requirements to become a physician assistants in Virginia?▼
Physician Assistants positions in Virginia typically require Master'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 physician assistants afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $135,490, a physician assistants in Virginia would take home approximately $8,007/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 17.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for physician assistants in Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for physician assistants in Virginia are Staunton-Stuarts Draft ($145,840), Richmond ($130,050), Roanoke ($129,750). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for physician assistants?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.4%. On a $135,490 salary, this means roughly $7,274/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.