Automotive & Maintenance Virginia (VA) Rank #14 of 50

Auto Mechanic Salary in Virginia

The median auto mechanic salary in Virginia is $48,870 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $46,990.

Median Salary
$48,870
vs National
+$1,880
State Rank
#14 of 50
Cost of Living
104%

Auto Mechanic Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)

Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for auto mechanic compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for auto mechanic pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $48,870 per year, auto mechanics in Virginia earn $1,880 more than the national median of $46,990.

Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning auto mechanic salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Virginia is significant: auto mechanics at the 10th percentile earn $31,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $78,000 — a $46,800 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Virginia for this role is Arlington, where the median reaches $62,027.

Nationally, auto mechanic employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for auto mechanics across the country.

Auto Mechanic Salary in Virginia by Experience

In Virginia, an entry-level auto mechanic earns around $33,280, while experienced professionals earn up to $74,880 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$33,280
+$1,280 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$49,920
+$1,920 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$74,880
+$2,880 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Virginia

Percentile VA Salary
10th Percentile $31,200
25th Percentile $38,480
Median (50th) $48,870
75th Percentile $62,400
90th Percentile $78,000

Auto Mechanic Salary by City in Virginia

The largest employment areas for auto mechanics in Virginia include Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond, and Arlington. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Auto Mechanic in Virginia

Education

Most auto mechanic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Automotive DiagnosticsEngine RepairBrake SystemsElectrical SystemsASE CertificationCustomer Service

Job Outlook in Virginia

Nationally, auto mechanic employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Auto Mechanic Salary in Virginia

How much does a Auto Mechanic make in Virginia? ▼
The median auto mechanic salary in Virginia is $48,870 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $46,990. Salaries range from $31,200 (10th percentile) to $78,000 (90th percentile).
How much does a Auto Mechanic make per hour in Virginia? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $48,870, a auto mechanic in Virginia earns approximately $23 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Virginia a good state for auto mechanics? ▼
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for auto mechanic pay. The cost of living index is 104% of the national average. Entry-level auto mechanics earn $33,280, while senior professionals earn $74,880.
How does Virginia compare to other states for auto mechanic salary? ▼
The highest paying state for auto mechanics is Hawaii at $79,883. Virginia's median of $48,870 ranks #14 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Hampshire ($49,340) and Rhode Island ($49,340).
What is the entry-level auto mechanic salary in Virginia? ▼
An entry-level auto mechanic in Virginia earns approximately $33,280 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $49,920. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $74,880.
What city in Virginia pays auto mechanics the most? ▼
Arlington is the highest paying city in Virginia for auto mechanics, with a median salary of $62,027. Other cities include Virginia Beach and Norfolk.