10 Major Virginia Industries to Consider if You’re Working in or Moving to the Old Dominion State
Considering moving to the Old Dominion State? Virginia boasts a diverse economy, with major industries in Virginia ranging from technology to agriculture. Whether you’re browsing homes for sale in Richmond or apartments in Virginia Beach, understanding the state’s economic landscape can help you make an informed decision. The state’s robust job market offers opportunities across various sectors. Let’s explore the top industries that make Virginia a great place to live and work.
Virginia at a glance: Home prices, income, and employment
| $447,500 | |
|
$89,931 |
|
| Unemployment rate |
2.8% |
Top employers in Virginia
- Walmart: 46,200 employees
- Amazon: 39,000 employees
- Target: 14,300 employees
- Virginia Commonwealth University: 13,500 employees
- United States Postal Service: 13,100 employees
10 major industries in Virginia
1. Government and military
Major Employers: The Pentagon (Arlington), Fort Belvoir (Fairfax County), Naval Station Norfolk (Norfolk)
Virginia’s proximity to Washington, D.C., makes it a hub for government and military operations. The Pentagon, located in Arlington, offers numerous administrative and defense-related jobs. Fort Belvoir in Fairfax County provides opportunities in logistics and intelligence. Naval Station Norfolk, the world’s largest naval base, employs thousands in naval operations and support roles. These institutions contribute significantly to the state’s economy and offer stable employment for residents.
Thinking about moving to Virginia for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Arlington or Fairfax County.
2. Professional, scientific, and technical services
Major Employers: Booz Allen Hamilton (McLean), General Dynamics (Reston), Leidos Holdings (Reston)
The professional, scientific, and technical services sector is a major driver of Virginia’s economy. Companies like Booz Allen Hamilton in McLean specialize in consulting and cybersecurity services. General Dynamics, based in Reston, offers careers in defense technology and aerospace. Leidos Holdings in Reston focuses on IT solutions and engineering. These firms attract professionals seeking high-skilled jobs in cutting-edge fields.
Thinking about moving to Virginia for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in McLean or Reston.
3. Information technology
Major Employers: MicroStrategy (Tysons), Appian Corporation (McLean), DXC Technology (Ashburn)
Virginia is a burgeoning tech hub with a strong information technology sector. The state hosts over 13,000 tech establishments in an industry that generates $37 billion for the state. MicroStrategy in Tysons specializes in business intelligence software, offering roles in software development and data analytics. Appian Corporation in McLean focuses on low-code automation platforms. DXC Technology in Ashburn provides IT services and consulting. The state’s investment in tech infrastructure makes it appealing to IT professionals.
Thinking about moving to Virginia for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in McLean or Ashburn.
4. Manufacturing
Major Employers: Smithfield Foods (Smithfield) Newport News Shipbuilding (Newport News), DuPont (locations in Virginia)
Manufacturing plays a vital role in Virginia’s economy, employing over 240,000 people and generating almost $46 billion. Ranging from food processing to shipbuilding, companies like Smithfield Foods in Smithfield are leading meat-processing firms offering jobs in production and quality control. Newport News Shipbuilding constructs naval ships and employs engineers and skilled tradespeople. The sector offers diverse job options for residents.
Thinking about moving to Virginia for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Newport News or Smithfield.
5. Education and health services
Major Employers: Inova Health System (Falls Church), Sentara Healthcare (Norfolk), Virginia Commonwealth University (Richmond)
The education and health services sector is robust in Virginia. Inova Health System in Falls Church is a leading nonprofit healthcare provider, employing medical professionals and support staff. Sentara Healthcare offers careers in patient care and administration. Virginia Commonwealth University provides jobs in higher education and research. This industry supports community well-being and offers stable employment.
Thinking about moving to Virginia for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Richmond or Norfolk.
6. Finance and insurance
Major Employers: Capital One Financial Corporation (McLean), Genworth Financial (Richmond), Freddie Mac (locations in Virginia)
Virginia’s finance and insurance sector is thriving. Capital One offers roles in banking, data analysis, and cybersecurity, while Genworth Financial in Richmond specializes in insurance and investment solutions, providing jobs in finance and customer service. The industry attracts professionals seeking careers in financial services.
Thinking about moving to Virginia for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in McLean or Richmond.
7. Transportation and warehousing
Major Employers: Norfolk Southern Corporation (Norfolk), Virginia Port Authority (Norfolk), UPS (locations in Virginia)
Transportation and warehousing are key industries due to Virginia’s strategic location along the Atlantic coast. Norfolk Southern Corporation in Norfolk is a major rail transport company offering jobs in logistics and operations. The Virginia Port Authority manages one of the busiest ports on the East Coast, providing employment in maritime services. UPS has facilities across the state, offering roles in package handling and delivery. This sector supports commerce and trade throughout the state and nationwide.
Thinking about moving to Virginia for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Norfolk or Chesapeake.
8. Agriculture
Major Employers: Perdue Farms (locations in Virginia), Old Dominion Peanut Company (Norfolk), Farm Bureau of Virginia (Richmond)
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Virginia’s economy, with an annual economic impact of $105 billion and providing over 334,000 jobs. Perdue Farms processes poultry, employing workers in farming and production. Old Dominion Peanut Company in Norfolk offers jobs in food processing, and the Farm Bureau of Virginia supports agricultural businesses and provides roles in administration and advocacy. The industry offers rural and community-based employment opportunities.
Thinking about moving to Virginia for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Norfolk or Richmond.
9. Tourism and hospitality
Major Employers: Kings Dominion (Doswell), Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg), Hilton Worldwide (McLean)
Tourism and hospitality thrive in Virginia’s rich historical and recreational sites. Kings Dominion in Doswell offers jobs in entertainment and park operations. The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation employs individuals in historical interpretation and guest services, and Hilton Worldwide provides careers in hotel management and hospitality services. This industry enhances the state’s appeal to visitors and residents alike.
Thinking about moving to Virginia for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in McLean or Doswell.
10. Construction
Major Employers: Bechtel Corporation (Reston), HITT Contracting (Falls Church), Clark Construction Group (locations in Virginia)
Construction is a vital industry supporting Virginia’s growth. Bechtel Corporation in Reston offers roles in engineering and project management. HITT Contracting specializes in commercial construction, employing skilled tradespeople and managers. Clark Construction Group has projects across the state, providing jobs in building and infrastructure development. This industry supports community development and offers opportunities for various skill levels.
Thinking about moving to Virginia for a job in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Reston or Falls Church.
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