Handymen play a vital role in the Norfolk, Virginia job market—handling repairs, general maintenance, installations, and a variety of property services. As homeownership and rental markets continue evolving, so does the demand for skilled handyman professionals.
This comprehensive guide covers the handyman salary in Norfolk, VA in 2026, including typical earnings, experience-based pay, influencing factors, job market trends, benefits, and comparisons with nearby cities.
Average Handyman Salary in Norfolk, VA
Handyman salaries in Norfolk vary considerably depending on employer, skill level, and type of work performed.
Typical Hourly Wage
| Source | Hourly Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Norfolk average | $25.87/hr | Based on multiple job reports (Indeed) |
| FixTman LLC average | $25.41/hr | Employer-specific data |
| ShelfGenie estimate | $45.27/hr | Higher-end contractor jobs |
| BG Staffing average | $16.46/hr | Lower range example |
Salary Range Breakdown
Low range: Approximately $15–$18/hr (entry-level or lower-paying jobs)
Average range: Around $25–$30/hr for many handyman positions
High range: Up to $45+/hr for skilled contractors or specialty jobs
Using a typical full‑time schedule (40 hours/week), an average handyman in Norfolk might expect:
| Experience Level | Approx. Annual Pay |
|---|---|
| Entry‑Level | ~$30,000 – $35,000 |
| Mid‑Level | ~$40,000 – $55,000 |
| Experienced / Contractor | ~$60,000+ (varies widely) |
These figures reflect typical market earnings and can vary based on job type and employer.
Salary by Experience and Skill Level
Experience and skill specialization are key drivers of handyman earnings.
1. Entry‑Level Handyman
Routine maintenance and basic repair tasks
Under guidance or supervision
Typical pay: $15–$22/hr
2. Mid‑Level Handyman
Independently handles varied tasks such as dry‑wall repair, carpentry patches, painting
May perform light electrical or plumbing tasks where permitted
Typical pay: $22–$30/hr
3. Skilled / Specialized Handyman
Advanced troubleshooting and property maintenance
Contract or project‑based work with higher rates
Typical pay: $30–$50+/hr
Experienced handymen who are confident, licensed (where applicable), and capable of handling broader responsibilities can significantly increase income, especially through contract or service‑based billing.
Factors That Influence Handyman Earnings
A number of factors affect handyman pay in Norfolk:
Skill level and versatility: More skills typically means higher pay
Type of employment: Salaried positions vs. contract work
Certifications or training: Examples include OSHA or trade certificates
Specialized niche skills: Carpentry, finish work, or smart home installations
Business model: Self‑employed professionals often set their own rates
Seasonal demand: Surges in spring and summer home improvement projects
For self‑employed handymen, how one prices services (hourly vs. flat fee) also significantly affects total earnings.
Job Market Trends in Norfolk, VA
The job market for handyman services around Norfolk in 2026 shows continued demand for property maintenance professionals.
What’s Driving Demand?
Steady residential and rental housing maintenance needs
Aging housing stock requiring repair and upkeep
Commercial property facilities requiring routine maintenance
Seasonal home improvement trends
Employers on job boards indicate a wide range of opportunities from maintenance tech roles to independent handyman positions with varying pay scales. Many listings show ranges from $19–$60+ per hour depending on responsibility level and employer expectations .
Contract positions and specialty handyman jobs (like smart installation services) often command premium rates, reflecting the value of experience and additional skills.
Benefits and Work Environment
Handyman positions in Norfolk often include a range of work environments and potential perks:
Traditional employment benefits: health insurance, paid time off (especially for full‑time roles)
Flexible schedules: common for contract or gig‑based handyman work
Company vehicles and tool allowances: offered by some service providers
Skill development opportunities: particularly with larger companies requiring multi‑trade abilities
Technicians who build a reputation for reliability and quality work can command repeat clients and higher rates.
How to Increase Your Handyman Salary
Here are practical ways to boost earnings:
Expand your skill set: Learn finishing carpentry, painting, minor plumbing, and electrical basics
Get certified: Safety and trade certificates enhance credibility
Specialize: Services like smart home setup or carpentry often earn more
Consider contracting: Running your own handyman business can offer much higher pay, though it requires marketing and client management skills
Provide excellent customer service: Word‑of‑mouth and repeat work often translate to better income
Handyman Salary Comparison: Nearby Cities (2026)
| City | Typical Average Hourly Pay |
|---|---|
| Norfolk, VA | ~$25–$35/hr (varies widely) |
| Virginia Beach, VA | ~$27–$28/hr |
| Chesapeake, VA | Similar service rates often seen up to $50–$60/hr (job postings) |
| Newport News, VA | ~$27–$30/hr (nearby median) |
These comparisons reflect general market data. Norfolk typically aligns with regional trends but can offer higher rates in contract or specialized handyman roles compared with some neighboring areas.
Job Outlook for 2026 and Beyond
The handyman profession is expected to remain stable in Norfolk:
Consistent demand for property maintenance services
Housing market necessity for upkeep and repairs
Growth in service contracts with property managers and rental agencies
Professionals with broader skill sets and business development abilities can find excellent growth opportunities through contracting or self‑employment.
Final Thoughts
The handyman salary in Norfolk, VA in 2026 reflects a varied job market with strong opportunities for both traditional employees and independent contractors. With hourly wages commonly ranging from $15 to $45+, a handyman’s earnings depend on experience, employer, and skill specialization.
Whether you’re starting out, building experience, or considering self‑employment, Norfolk’s market continues to offer real potential for earnings growth and career stability in home and property maintenance.