Virginia Beach, VA, a thriving coastal city with steady residential and commercial growth, offers strong opportunities for handymen—skilled general maintenance professionals who tackle tasks from basic repairs to home upgrades. As demand for home services rises, so does the need for clear insights into what handymen in the area can earn in 2026.
This detailed guide covers handyman salary in Virginia Beach, including average rates, factors affecting earnings, experience-based pay, job market trends, benefits, education/certifications, and comparisons with nearby cities.
Average Handyman Salary in Virginia Beach
Handyman pay in Virginia Beach varies based on employment type, skills, and whether you’re hourly or project-based.
Hourly and Annual Compensation
| Pay Type | Typical Range (2026) |
|---|---|
| Hourly Average | ~$24.00 per hour |
| Low Range | ~$12.40 per hour |
| High Range | ~$54.36 per hour |
According to recent employer-reported data, the average handyman in Virginia Beach earns about $24.00 per hour, which is slightly above the national average for similar roles.
This translates to an estimated yearly equivalent of roughly $48,000–$55,000 for full-time work, assuming typical hours.
Earnings by Experience Level
Handyman income often increases with experience, specialization, and client demand.
Entry-Level Handyman (0–2 years)
Handles basic tasks: painting touch-ups, minor repairs, yard cleanup
Works under supervision or as part of a team
Typical pay: $18–$24 per hour
Mid-Level Handyman (3–5 years)
Performs broader range of tasks including carpentry and maintenance
May take on independent client work
Typical pay: $25–$35 per hour
Skilled or Specialized Handyman (5+ years)
Handles complex jobs: built-ins, detailed finish work, advanced troubleshooting
May work independently or contract with firms
Typical pay: $35–$50+ per hour
Job postings also show a wide range for independent contractor rates, sometimes as high as $30–$100 per hour for premium service or specialized roles.
Factors That Influence Handyman Earnings
A handyman’s income in Virginia Beach is affected by several key factors:
1. Skill Set and Services Offered
Basic vs. advanced carpentry
Drywall, painting, tile work, fixture installation
More services = higher pay
2. Employment Type
W‑2 employee vs. independent contractor
Contractors often charge higher hourly rates
3. Experience & Reputation
Repeat clients and referrals boost earnings
More experience → higher negotiated rates
4. Season & Demand
Busy spring/summer seasons may increase billable hours
5. Licensing & Insurance
Licensed and insured workers can command better pay
Virginia has licensing requirements for larger jobs (contracts over $1,000), which can impact how handymen structure their services.
Job Market Trends for Handymen in Virginia Beach
Growing Home Services Demand
As homeowners invest in maintenance, remodels, and upgrades, demand for handyman services is strong. Listings show multiple handyman and maintenance technician job opportunities in the region, with a range of compensation depending on employer and skill level.
Broader Opportunities
Assisted living and property management facilities hire handymen for routine tasks
Contractors and remodelers subcontract handyman jobs during peak seasons
Benefits of Working as a Handyman
Handymen often enjoy:
Flexible work schedules
Ability to earn more by picking jobs strategically
Opportunity to work independently or with companies
Chance to build loyal client base
Potential for higher earnings with specialization
Some employee roles include benefits like health insurance and paid time off, depending on the employer.
Education, Certifications & Licensing
Handymen in Virginia Beach don’t always need formal degrees, but the following can boost credibility and pay:
Helpful Credentials
Trade school certificates in carpentry, plumbing basics, or electrical
OSHA safety certifications
EPA Lead‑Safe Certification (for older home work)
Business licensing and insurance for independent contractors
Licensing requirements in Virginia vary; jobs over certain dollar amounts may require contractor registration.
These credentials help attract higher‑paying clients and allow marketing as a professional service provider.
Handyman Rates vs. Nearby Cities
Here’s how handyman pay in Virginia Beach compares with nearby areas for similar roles:
| City | Typical Hourly Rates |
|---|---|
| Virginia Beach, VA | ~$24 avg (range $12–$54+) |
| Norfolk, VA | ~$27–$28 reported in job data |
| Newport News, VA | Around $27–$28+ |
| Chesapeake, VA | Comparable to VB rates (industry pricing) |
Rates vary based on local demand, cost of living, and types of services most in demand.
Tips to Boost Your Handyman Income
Aspiring and working handymen can enhance earnings by:
Offering specialized services (tile work, built‑ins)
Setting competitive hourly/project rates
Securing insurance and business licenses
Investing in tools that support more jobs
Building an online presence for referrals
Conclusion
The handyman salary in Virginia Beach, VA for 2026 reflects a healthy local market with competitive hourly rates and room for growth. While the average reported wage is around $24 per hour, skilled and specialized careers can command significantly higher rates, especially for independent contractors. With strong demand across residential and commercial sectors, handymen with experience and proper credentials are well positioned to earn a solid income and build a sustainable business or career in this coastal region.