Childcare Worker salary in Richmond, VA

The median pay for a childcare worker in Richmond, VA is $16.14 an hour — about $33,570 a year full time. That figure comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for Richmond, VA (2025). Half of the roles pay more than this and half pay less, so treat it as the middle of the market rather than a target.

Most childcare workers in Richmond, VA earn between $13.59 an hour and $17.86 an hour — that is the 10th to the 90th percentile. The spread usually reflects experience, shift, certifications and employer size more than anything else.

Pay at the bottom of the range — roughly what someone starting out can expect — is around $13.59 an hour in Richmond, VA. A quarter of childcare workers earn below $14.13 an hour, so the first year or two typically sits in that band. This is a role employers routinely fill with people who have no prior experience.

The top 10% of childcare workers in Richmond, VA earn about $17.86 an hour or more. Getting there usually means experience plus something specific — certifications, supervisory duties, specialised skills or premium shifts.

Childcare workers look after children in nurseries, daycare centres and preschools, supporting their development, safety and daily needs. Day to day, that means supervise and care for children, plan and lead age-appropriate activities, support meals, naps and hygiene and observe and record development.

The usual route is: (1) check your state's licensing requirements, (2) start as an assistant while training, (3) obtain a CDA or early childhood qualification, (4) progress to lead teacher or centre director. Employers typically look for requirements vary by state and setting, CDA credential or early childhood coursework often required and background check and fingerprinting.

Usually not. Most employers hire childcare workers without a specific licence, though CDA credential or early childhood coursework often required will widen your options and often your pay.

Consistent demand, though pay has historically lagged the responsibility involved. Centre-based roles usually offer better benefits than in-home care.