Virginia Income Tax Calculator 2026

Everything you need to understand Virginia state income tax in 2026 β€” brackets, deductions, paycheck math, and how your salary converts after Virginia taxes.

Illustration of a tax form
Top Rate
5.75%
Tax Type
Progressive
Cost of Living
102
State Code
VA
Calculate Your Virginia Take-Home Pay

Virginia Income Tax at a Glance

Virginia has a progressive income tax up to 5.75% (reached at just $17,000 of taxable income, so effectively a 5.75% flat tax for most). Sales tax 4.3% state + 1% local + regional add-ons (NoVA/Hampton Roads: 6%). Low property taxes (~0.8%).

How Virginia's Tax Compares

Virginia has a cost of living index of 102 (where 100 is the national average), putting it 2% above average. This means a $75,000 salary in Virginia has the purchasing power of about $73,529 in an average-cost state.

Take-Home Pay by Salary in Virginia

Here is the approximate Virginia state tax on common salary levels for a single filer taking the standard deduction:

Annual SalaryState Effective RateEst. State Tax
$50,0005.25%$2,625
$75,0005.5%$4,125
$100,0005.6%$5,600
$150,0005.7%$8,550
$250,0005.7%$14,250

These are state-only estimates. Your paycheck also loses federal tax (10-37% progressive) and FICA (7.65%). Use our tax calculator pre-filled for Virginia to see the full picture.

Largest Cities in Virginia

Virginia's population centers, each with their own local tax quirks, property tax rates, and cost of living:

Virginia Beach
460K
Chesapeake
250K
Norfolk
240K
Arlington
240K
Richmond
230K

Common Virginia Deductions & Credits

  • Standard deduction β€” varies by state; most states mirror or reduce the federal amount
  • Retirement account contributions β€” 401(k), IRA, HSA typically deductible (check state conformity)
  • Charitable giving β€” if you itemize on state return
  • Mortgage interest β€” if itemizing
  • State-specific credits β€” earned income tax credits, child tax credits, property tax credits

Is Virginia a Tax-Friendly State?

It depends on income. Lower earners pay relatively little. Higher earners in Virginia face one of the heavier combined federal + state burdens. See how you compare with our tax calculator.

Virginia vs No-Tax States

If you earn $100,000 in Virginia, your state tax is roughly $5,750. In Texas, Florida, or Washington, you would pay $0. Over 30 years of work, that difference compounds into a real retirement-size gap. But cost of living, property tax, and quality-of-life factors matter too β€” don't move just for the tax.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay Virginia income tax if I work remotely from another state?
Generally, you pay income tax to the state where you physically work, not where your employer is located. But Virginia has specific nuances: some states use the "convenience of the employer" rule that taxes you if your home office is for your convenience rather than the employer's requirement. Consult a CPA for multi-state situations.
How is Virginia state tax withheld from my paycheck?
Your employer estimates your annual Virginia tax based on your W-4 equivalent (state withholding form), then withholds a portion of each paycheck. At year-end, you reconcile on your state return β€” owe more, or get a refund.
Does Virginia tax retirement income?
It varies. Most states exempt Social Security benefits; fewer exempt 401(k) withdrawals or pensions. Check Virginia Department of Revenue for current treatment of each income type.
Can I reduce my Virginia state tax?
Yes β€” max out pre-tax 401(k) and HSA contributions (reduces both federal and state taxable income), and claim all state-specific credits. High earners may benefit from strategic Roth conversions in low-income years.
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