Machinist Salary in Virginia
The median machinist salary in Virginia is $50,825 per year, which is 4.0% above the national median of $48,870.
Machinist Salary Overview in Virginia (2026)
Virginia ranks #14 out of 50 states for machinist compensation. Virginia falls in the middle of the pack for machinist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $50,825 per year, machinists in Virginia earn $1,955 more than the national median of $48,870.
Virginia's cost of living is near the national average at 104%, meaning machinist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Virginia is significant: machinists at the 10th percentile earn $33,280, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $76,960 — a $43,680 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 $64,508.
Nationally, machinist employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for machinists across the country.
Machinist Salary in Virginia by Experience
In Virginia, an entry-level machinist earns around $35,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $74,880 per year. The cost of living index in Virginia is 104% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Virginia
| Percentile | VA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,280 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,560 |
| Median (50th) | $50,825 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,440 |
| 90th Percentile | $76,960 |
Machinist Salary by City in Virginia
The largest employment areas for machinists 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 Machinist in Virginia
Education
Most machinist positions require a high school diploma. Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Virginia
Nationally, machinist 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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