Virginia has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%, making it moderately taxed among Mid-Atlantic states. Our free Virginia paycheck calculator shows your exact take-home pay after federal taxes, Virginia state tax, and FICA deductions. Whether you're considering a move to the Commonwealth, comparing job opportunities in Northern Virginia or Richmond, or budgeting your current Virginia salary, get accurate results based on 2025 tax rates.
Virginia Tax System Overview
Virginia uses a progressive income tax system with four tax brackets:
2025 Virginia Tax Brackets (Single Filer)
| Income Range | Tax Rate | Tax Amount |
|---|---|---|
| $0 - $3,000 | 2.00% | Up to $60 |
| $3,001 - $5,000 | 3.00% | Up to $120 |
| $5,001 - $17,000 | 5.00% | Up to $720 |
| $17,001+ | 5.75% | $720+ |
- Standard Deduction: $4,500 (single), $9,000 (married filing jointly)
- Personal Exemption: $930 per person
- No Local Income Tax: Cities and counties cannot impose income taxes
- Age 65+ Deduction: Additional $800 deduction for seniors
Sample Virginia Paycheck Calculations
Here's how much you'll take home at different salary levels in Virginia:
$60,000 Annual Salary
- Gross Pay: $60,000
- Federal Tax: $6,437
- VA State Tax: $2,434
- FICA Taxes: $4,590
- Take-Home Pay: $46,539 (77.6%)
- Monthly Net: $3,878
- Bi-weekly Net: $1,790
$85,000 Annual Salary
- Gross Pay: $85,000
- Federal Tax: $11,639
- VA State Tax: $3,872
- FICA Taxes: $6,503
- Take-Home Pay: $62,986 (74.1%)
- Monthly Net: $5,249
- Bi-weekly Net: $2,422
$120,000 Annual Salary
- Gross Pay: $120,000
- Federal Tax: $19,394
- VA State Tax: $6,284
- FICA Taxes: $9,180
- Take-Home Pay: $85,142 (70.9%)
- Monthly Net: $7,095
- Bi-weekly Net: $3,275
Virginia vs. Neighboring States
Compare Virginia's tax burden with surrounding states:
Virginia ($85k salary)
- Take-home: $62,986
- Effective rate: 25.9%
- State tax: $3,872
- Moderate tax burden
Maryland ($85k salary)
- Take-home: ~$60,000-62,000
- Effective rate: 27-30%
- State+local tax: $5,200-6,200
- VA Saves: $1,000-3,000/year
Understanding Virginia Paycheck Deductions
Virginia State Income Tax
Virginia's progressive tax system is relatively straightforward:
- Progressive Rates: 2% to 5.75% depending on income level
- Standard Deduction: $4,500 (single), $9,000 (married)
- Personal Exemption: $930 per person
- Dependent Exemption: $930 per dependent
- Senior Deduction: Additional $800 if age 65+
Virginia's Tax Advantages
Virginia offers several tax benefits:
- No Local Income Tax: Cities and counties cannot impose income taxes
- Reasonable Rates: Top rate of 5.75% is competitive with neighboring states
- Military-Friendly: Military pay receives favorable treatment
- Business-Friendly: Attractive corporate tax environment
Northern Virginia vs. Rest of State
Tax rates are the same statewide, but cost of living varies significantly:
Northern Virginia (DC Metro)
- State tax: 2-5.75%
- Cost of living: Very high
- Salaries: Higher to compensate
- Housing: Expensive
Richmond/Norfolk Areas
- State tax: 2-5.75%
- Cost of living: Moderate
- Salaries: Lower but reasonable
- Housing: More affordable
Virginia Retirement Tax Considerations
Virginia provides some retirement benefits:
- Social Security: Not taxed by Virginia
- Military Retirement: Up to $40,000 exemption for military retirees
- Pension Income: Some exemptions available for qualifying pensions
- 401(k) & IRA: Withdrawals generally subject to state tax
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there local income taxes in Virginia?
No, Virginia law prohibits local governments from imposing income taxes. This keeps the tax system simple compared to states like Maryland or Pennsylvania.
Does Virginia tax military retirement pay?
Virginia provides generous exemptions for military retirement pay. Military retirees can exempt up to $40,000 of qualifying military retirement income from state taxes.
How does working in DC affect Virginia residents?
If you live in Virginia and work in DC, DC will withhold taxes from your paycheck, but you'll get credit for taxes paid to DC when filing your Virginia return.
Tax Planning Tips for Virginia Residents
Take Advantage of No Local Income Tax
Virginia's prohibition on local income taxes means you only deal with state and federal taxes, simplifying your tax situation.
Consider Military Benefits
Military members and retirees should take full advantage of Virginia's military-friendly tax policies and exemptions.
Plan Around DC Metro Salaries
Northern Virginia salaries are often higher to compensate for living costs, which can push you into higher tax brackets.
Ready to Calculate Your Virginia Take-Home Pay?
Use our calculator above to see exactly how much you'll keep from your paycheck in Virginia.