Virginia Beach vs Waynesboro: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Virginia Beach, VA and Waynesboro, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Virginia Beach, VA | Waynesboro, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,001▲ | $58,712 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.77▲ | $28.22 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $49,389▲ | $45,560 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,891▲ | $53,302 |
| 75th Percentile | $83,157▲ | $70,999 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $101,273▲ | $91,003 |
| Total Employed | 7,130▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Virginia Beach, VA offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Waynesboro.
The salary gap between Virginia Beach and Waynesboro is $5,289 (9.01%). Virginia Beach's median is -0.92% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Virginia Beach spans $51,884,Waynesboro spans $45,443. Virginia Beach has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Virginia Beach ($65,346 effective) pays 14.86% more than Waynesboro ($56,891 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Virginia Beach if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($64,001/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($101,273)
- ✓Larger job market (7,130 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $65,346)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Waynesboro if…
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Virginia Beach grew -12.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -17.6% growth in Waynesboro over the same period.
Virginia Beach, VA
$72,380 (2019) → $63,380 (2025)
Waynesboro, VA
$70,592 (2024) → $58,142 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Virginia Beach, VA
Waynesboro, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Virginia Beach or Waynesboro?
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Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov