Virginia Tax Brackets
How to read this: Only the income within each bracket is taxed at that rate. Your total tax is the sum across brackets.
| Income Range | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| $0 - $3,000 | 2.00% |
| $3,000 - $5,000 | 3.00% |
| $5,000 - $17,000 | 5.00% |
| $17,000+ | 5.75% |
Brackets shown for single filers. Married filing jointly brackets may differ. Use the calculator above to see your specific situation.
Key Facts That Affect Your Take-Home Pay
- Virginia uses a progressive income tax system with four brackets, starting at 2% for the first $3,000 of income and escalating to a top rate of 5.75% for income above $17,000 (for all filing statuses), making Virginia's top rate relatively moderate compared to high-tax progressive states.
- Virginia's progressive brackets are compressed at the bottom, meaning the first three brackets cover relatively low dollar amounts ($3,000-$17,000), so most middle and high earners quickly reach the top 5.75% rate. For a $75,000 earner, ~ $58,000+ of income is taxed at 5.75%, making the effective rate very close to the top bracket rate.
- Virginia does not impose income taxes at city or county levels, so your withholding remains consistent statewide. All Virginians have the same income tax structure—only the state progressive brackets apply.
Common Mistakes People Make
Misconception: 'Progressive tax means I'll pay high rates in Virginia.' Reality: Virginia's progressive system starts at just 2% for the first $3,000 of income, and the top rate is 5.75%—lower than many flat-tax states like Illinois (4.95%) or Michigan (4.25%) for high earners, though the compressed brackets mean most middle and high earners reach 5.75% quickly. Someone earning $75,000 pays an effective rate around 5.6%-5.7% (~ $4,200 annually), while the same earner in a flat-tax state like North Carolina would pay $3,563 (4.75% flat).
Misconception: 'The brackets mean my tax is spread out across different rates.' Reality: Virginia's brackets are compressed at the bottom, meaning the first three brackets cover relatively low dollar amounts ($3,000-$17,000). For most taxpayers earning above $25,000-$30,000, virtually all income above the first bracket is taxed at 5% or 5.75%. A $75,000 earner pays 5.75% on ~ $58,000+ of their income, making their effective rate very close to the top bracket rate.
Misconception: 'No local taxes means Virginia is cheaper than other states.' While Virginia avoids local income tax complications, the 5.75% top rate combined with sales taxes (5.3%-6% in many areas) and property taxes can still create a significant tax burden. A high earner in Virginia pays 5.75% income tax on most of their income, while a high earner in a flat-tax state like Pennsylvania pays 3.07% state (though PA may have local EIT). Factor in all taxes when comparing states.
One Thing to Know
Virginia's compressed brackets mean most earners hit the 5.75% top rate quickly, making the effective rate higher than the 2% starting rate suggests. The 5.75% rate is significantly higher than neighboring states like North Carolina (4.75% flat) or West Virginia (6.5% top), which surprises people who assume all Mid-Atlantic states have similar tax structures.
Important Notes
These calculations are estimates based on current tax law. Your actual take-home pay varies based on:
- Pre-tax deductions (401(k), health insurance, HSA, etc.)
- Your W-4 withholding elections
- Additional income or deductions at tax time
- Individual circumstances and tax situations
Tax rates are subject to change. Federal and state tax laws may be updated annually. This is not tax advice. For personalized help, consult a tax professional familiar with Virginia tax laws.