Trades & Labor Virginia (VA) Rank #14 of 50

Ironworker Salary in Virginia

The median ironworker salary in Virginia is $59,800 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $57,500.

Median Salary
$59,800
vs National
+$2,300
State Rank
#14 of 50
Cost of Living
104%

Ironworker Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)

Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for ironworker compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for ironworker pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $59,800 per year, ironworkers in Virginia earn $2,300 more than the national median of $57,500.

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

The salary spread in Virginia is significant: ironworkers at the 10th percentile earn $37,440, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $95,680 — a $58,240 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 $75,900.

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

Ironworker Salary in Virginia by Experience

In Virginia, an entry-level ironworker earns around $39,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $91,520 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$39,520
+$1,520 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$60,320
+$2,320 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$91,520
+$3,520 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Virginia

Percentile VA Salary
10th Percentile $37,440
25th Percentile $45,760
Median (50th) $59,800
75th Percentile $78,000
90th Percentile $95,680

Ironworker Salary by City in Virginia

The largest employment areas for ironworkers 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 Ironworker in Virginia

Education

Most ironworker positions require a high school diploma + apprenticeship. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Structural SteelWeldingBlueprint ReadingRiggingSafety/Fall ProtectionPhysical Stamina

Job Outlook in Virginia

Nationally, ironworker 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: Ironworker Salary in Virginia

How much does a Ironworker make in Virginia? ▼
The median ironworker salary in Virginia is $59,800 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $57,500. Salaries range from $37,440 (10th percentile) to $95,680 (90th percentile).
How much does a Ironworker make per hour in Virginia? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $59,800, a ironworker in Virginia earns approximately $29 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Virginia a good state for ironworkers? ▼
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for ironworker pay. The cost of living index is 104% of the national average. Entry-level ironworkers earn $39,520, while senior professionals earn $91,520.
How does Virginia compare to other states for ironworker salary? ▼
The highest paying state for ironworkers is Hawaii at $102,350. Virginia's median of $59,800 ranks #14 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include New Hampshire ($60,375) and Rhode Island ($60,375).
What is the entry-level ironworker salary in Virginia? ▼
An entry-level ironworker in Virginia earns approximately $39,520 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $60,320. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $91,520.
What city in Virginia pays ironworkers the most? ▼
Arlington is the highest paying city in Virginia for ironworkers, with a median salary of $75,900. Other cities include Virginia Beach and Norfolk.