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

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Virginia

The median diesel mechanic salary in Virginia is $57,616 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $55,400.

Median Salary
$57,616
vs National
+$2,216
State Rank
#14 of 50
Cost of Living
104%

Diesel Mechanic Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)

Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for diesel mechanic compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for diesel mechanic pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $57,616 per year, diesel mechanics in Virginia earn $2,216 more than the national median of $55,400.

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

The salary spread in Virginia is significant: diesel mechanics at the 10th percentile earn $36,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $85,280 — a $48,880 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 $73,128.

Nationally, diesel mechanic employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for diesel mechanics across the country.

Diesel Mechanic Salary in Virginia by Experience

In Virginia, an entry-level diesel mechanic earns around $38,480, while experienced professionals earn up to $81,120 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$38,480
+$1,480 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$58,240
+$2,240 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$81,120
+$3,120 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Virginia

Percentile VA Salary
10th Percentile $36,400
25th Percentile $44,720
Median (50th) $57,616
75th Percentile $71,760
90th Percentile $85,280

Diesel Mechanic Salary by City in Virginia

The largest employment areas for diesel 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 Diesel Mechanic in Virginia

Education

Most diesel mechanic positions require a high school diploma. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Diesel EnginesHydraulic SystemsElectrical DiagnosticsPreventive MaintenanceCDL KnowledgeWelding

Job Outlook in Virginia

Nationally, diesel mechanic employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Diesel Mechanic Salary in Virginia

How much does a Diesel Mechanic make in Virginia? ▼
The median diesel mechanic salary in Virginia is $57,616 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $55,400. Salaries range from $36,400 (10th percentile) to $85,280 (90th percentile).
How much does a Diesel Mechanic make per hour in Virginia? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $57,616, a diesel mechanic in Virginia earns approximately $28 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Virginia a good state for diesel mechanics? ▼
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for diesel mechanic pay. The cost of living index is 104% of the national average. Entry-level diesel mechanics earn $38,480, while senior professionals earn $81,120.
How does Virginia compare to other states for diesel mechanic salary? ▼
The highest paying state for diesel mechanics is Hawaii at $94,180. Virginia's median of $57,616 ranks #14 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Hampshire ($58,170) and Rhode Island ($58,170).
What is the entry-level diesel mechanic salary in Virginia? ▼
An entry-level diesel mechanic in Virginia earns approximately $38,480 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $58,240. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $81,120.
What city in Virginia pays diesel mechanics the most? ▼
Arlington is the highest paying city in Virginia for diesel mechanics, with a median salary of $73,128. Other cities include Virginia Beach and Norfolk.