Chesapeake vs Norfolk: Athletic Trainer Salary (2026)
Compare athletic trainer salaries between Chesapeake, VA and Norfolk, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chesapeake, VA | Norfolk, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $64,681 | $65,393▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $31.10 | $31.44▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $45,614 | $46,962▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $57,549▲ | $55,199 |
| 75th Percentile | $80,882▲ | $80,003 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $98,588▲ | $97,002 |
| Total Employed | 63▲ | 54 |
Verdict
Chesapeake and Norfolk are closely matched on overall athletic trainer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Chesapeake and Norfolk is $712 (1.10%). Norfolk's median is -0.03% compared to the US national median of $65,415.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chesapeake spans $52,974,Norfolk spans $50,040. Chesapeake 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, Norfolk ($63,365 effective) pays 1.10% more than Chesapeake ($62,675 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chesapeake if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($98,588)
- ✓Larger job market (63 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Norfolk if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($65,393/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $63,365)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, athletic trainer salaries in Chesapeake grew 3.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 3.5% growth in Norfolk over the same period.
Chesapeake, VA
$59,757 (2024) → $61,819 (2025)
Norfolk, VA
$60,414 (2024) → $62,499 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chesapeake, VA
Norfolk, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays athletic trainers more: Chesapeake or Norfolk?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chesapeake and Norfolk?
Should I relocate from Chesapeake to Norfolk as a athletic trainer?
What do entry-level athletic trainers earn in Chesapeake vs Norfolk?
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Written by Jordan Lee, MS, ATC
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in athletic training. She specializes in injury prevention and rehabilitation. She has worked at several high schools and collegiate athletic programs.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.63% 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, MS, ATC, a licensed athletic trainer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov