How to Become a Registered Nurses in Virginia
Registered Nurses in Virginia earn a median salary of $88,820/year, which is 5% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.2%. After taxes and rent, a registered nurses takes home approximately $4,111/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a registered nurses can afford in Virginia
Becoming a registered nurses in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Registered Nurses 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
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 registered nursess. 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 77,420 registered nurses. The highest concentrations are in Charlottesville and Winchester.
Registered Nurses salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlottesville | $95K | $45.76/hr | 2,850 |
| Winchester | $91K | $43.88/hr | 1,580 |
| Richmond | $90K | $43.14/hr | 15,440 |
| Lynchburg | $82K | $39.34/hr | 2,490 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $81K | $39.15/hr | 1,190 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $81K | $39.03/hr | 16,270 |
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $80K | $38.61/hr | 1,430 |
| Roanoke | $76K | $36.52/hr | 5,970 |
Registered Nurses salary range in Virginia
Registered Nurses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a registered nurses make in Virginia?▼
The median registered nurses salary in Virginia is $88,820 per year ($42.7/hr). This is 5% below the national median of $93,600. Salaries range from $64,370 to $124,040.
What are the requirements to become a registered nurses in Virginia?▼
Registered Nurses 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 registered nurses afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $88,820, a registered nurses in Virginia would take home approximately $5,523/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 25.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for registered nurses in Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for registered nurses in Virginia are Charlottesville ($95,180), Winchester ($91,280), Richmond ($89,730). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for registered nurses?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.2%. On a $88,820 salary, this means roughly $4,591/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.