How to Become a Veterinarians in Virginia
Veterinarians in Virginia earn a median salary of $124,110/year, which is 1% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.3%. After taxes and rent, a veterinarians takes home approximately $6,002/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a veterinarians can afford in Virginia
Becoming a veterinarians in Virginia
Meet education requirements
Veterinarians 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
Many veterinarians 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 veterinarianss. 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 2,560 veterinarians. The highest concentrations are in Charlottesville and Richmond.
Veterinarians salary by metro area in Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlottesville | $120K | $57.78/hr | 90 |
| Richmond | $118K | $56.56/hr | 410 |
| Winchester | $115K | $55.13/hr | 40 |
| Harrisonburg | $110K | $52.95/hr | 50 |
| Staunton-Stuarts Draft | $106K | $51.14/hr | 50 |
| Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk | $106K | $50.9/hr | 460 |
| Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford | $104K | $50.15/hr | 60 |
| Lynchburg | $104K | $50.01/hr | 70 |
| Roanoke | $103K | $49.69/hr | 110 |
Veterinarians salary range in Virginia
Veterinarians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a veterinarians make in Virginia?▼
The median veterinarians salary in Virginia is $124,110 per year ($59.67/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $125,510. Salaries range from $55,870 to $195,620.
What are the requirements to become a veterinarians in Virginia?▼
Veterinarians 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 veterinarians afford to live in Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $124,110, a veterinarians in Virginia would take home approximately $7,414/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 19% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for veterinarians in Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for veterinarians in Virginia are Charlottesville ($120,180), Richmond ($117,640), Winchester ($114,670). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Virginia have state income tax for veterinarians?▼
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.3%. On a $124,110 salary, this means roughly $6,620/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.