How to Become a Public Relations Specialists in Virginia
Public Relations Specialists in Virginia earn a median salary of $77,800/year, which is 11% above the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.1%. After taxes and rent, a public relations specialists takes home approximately $3,518/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a public relations specialists can afford in Virginia
Becoming a public relations specialists in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Public Relations 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.
Gain required experience
Many public relations 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.
Obtain Virginia licensure or certification
Virginia may require specific licensing or professional certification for public relations specialistss. 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 9,580 public relations specialists. The highest concentrations are in Winchester and Charlottesville.
Public Relations Specialists salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winchester | $76K | $36.76/hr | 70 |
| Charlottesville | $75K | $36.07/hr | 350 |
| Richmond | $72K | $34.65/hr | 1,580 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $69K | $33.39/hr | 1,100 |
| Lynchburg | $59K | $28.54/hr | 150 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $59K | $28.2/hr | 160 |
| Harrisonburg | $53K | $25.45/hr | 110 |
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $51K | $24.66/hr | 70 |
| Roanoke | $50K | $24.2/hr | 240 |
Public Relations Specialists salary range in Virginia
Public Relations Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a public relations specialists make in Virginia?▼
The median public relations specialists salary in Virginia is $77,800 per year ($37.41/hr). This is 11% above the national median of $69,780. Salaries range from $43,960 to $137,170.
What are the requirements to become a public relations specialists in Virginia?▼
Public Relations 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 public relations specialists afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $77,800, a public relations specialists in Virginia would take home approximately $4,930/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for public relations specialists in Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for public relations specialists in Virginia are Winchester ($76,460), Charlottesville ($75,030), Richmond ($72,070). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for public relations specialists?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.1%. On a $77,800 salary, this means roughly $3,957/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.