Social Worker Salary in Chesapeake, Virginia
The median social worker salary in Chesapeake, VA is $54,243 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 5.8% below the Virginia state average.
Social Worker Pay in Chesapeake: What to Expect (2026)
Chesapeake offers a median social worker salary of $54,243, which is $3,321 below the Virginia state average of $57,564. Compared to the national median of $55,350, Chesapeake pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Chesapeake's cost of living is 98% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for social workers in Chesapeake spans from $35,672 at the 10th percentile to $86,044 at the 90th percentile — a $50,372 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $37,240, while senior social workers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $80,360. With a population of 249,422, Chesapeake is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Social Worker Salary in Chesapeake by Experience
In Chesapeake, an entry-level social worker earns around $37,240, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,360 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Chesapeake, VA
| Percentile | Chesapeake |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $35,672 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,316 |
| Median (50th) | $54,243 |
| 75th Percentile | $68,992 |
| 90th Percentile | $86,044 |
Social Worker Salary in Other Virginia Cities
How to Become a Social Worker in Chesapeake
Education
Most social worker positions require a bachelor's degree. Chesapeake and the surrounding Virginia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, social worker employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Chesapeake may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Social Worker Jobs in Chesapeake
Browse open social worker positions in Chesapeake, VA: