Mental Health Counselor Salary in Virginia (2026)
Virginia · 10.0% above national average · Very High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach | $62,035 | +5.0% | Very High |
| Richmond | $60,263 | +2.0% | Very High |
Virginia is home to a very strong job market for Mental Health Counselors. The state's key industries — Government, Technology, Defense — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $59,081 per year, Virginia's Mental Health Counselor salaries are 10.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in Virginia (index: 1.1) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in Virginia can expect to earn $38,584–$49,877, while experienced Mental Health Counselors can command $75,285–$84,846.
Looking ahead, the Mental Health Counselor profession in Virginia is projected to grow at 5.2% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Government continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Mental Health Counselor salary in Virginia?The average Mental Health Counselor salary in Virginia is $59,081 per year in 2026, which is 10.0% above the national average of $53,710.
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What city in Virginia pays Mental Health Counselors the most?Major metro areas typically pay Mental Health Counselors the highest wages in Virginia due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is Virginia a good state for Mental Health Counselors?Virginia has a very strong job market with major industries in Government, Technology, Defense. This makes it one of the better states for Mental Health Counselor employment.
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How does Virginia Mental Health Counselor salary compare to the US average?At $59,081/year, Virginia Mental Health Counselor salaries are 10.0% higher than the national average of $53,710/year.