Virginia · BLS OEWS May 2025
The highest paying trades in Virginia
Seven skilled trades, ranked by what they actually pay in Virginia. Elevator Installers lead at a $108,250 median, and our 10-year model puts that path $669,551 ahead of the average college route. Every number is BLS data; every trade links to its full state breakdown.
Reviewed by Brad Zemke, third-generation tradesman, 20+ years in the field.
| # | Trade | Median | Per hour | 10-yr edge vs college |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elevator Installer | $108,250 | $52.04/hr | $669,551 |
| 2 | Aircraft Mechanic | $82,200 | $39.52/hr | $458,099 |
| 3 | Lineworker | $76,590 | $36.82/hr | $410,609 |
| 4 | Wind Turbine Technician (national est.) | $64,120 | $30.83/hr | $306,685 |
| 5 | Electrician | $62,900 | $30.24/hr | $258,304 |
| 6 | Diesel Mechanic | $61,090 | $29.37/hr | $259,545 |
| 7 | Plumber | $60,470 | $29.07/hr | $228,838 |
| 8 | HVAC Technician | $59,730 | $28.72/hr | $257,441 |
| 9 | Auto Mechanic | $59,330 | $28.52/hr | $258,681 |
| 10 | Welder | $59,180 | $28.45/hr | $254,086 |
| 11 | Heavy Equipment Operator | $57,160 | $27.48/hr | $211,629 |
| 12 | CDL Truck Driver | $56,860 | $27.34/hr | $249,153 |
| 13 | Carpenter | $55,690 | $26.77/hr | $191,638 |
"10-yr edge" = cumulative net earnings advantage over the average bachelor's path after 10 years, per our documented model. Elevator installer pay is real, but union apprenticeship entry is competitive.
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