Average salary in West Virginia

West Virginia is known for its natural beauty and is often referred to as the Mountain State. However, it also has a reputation for being one of the poorest states in the country. According to the US Census Bureau, West Virginia had a poverty rate of 16.2% in 2019, which is higher than the national average. Despite this, there are still many high-paying jobs and opportunities available in West Virginia. 

Average salary in West Virginia by county

Reviewing average salaries in West Virginia by city is not necessarily an adequate metric for average salaries across the state, since it’s entirely urban focused. A good idea is to weigh these figures up against the average salary in West Virginia by county, as this will take areas outside the main cities into account and offer a broader idea of salary ranges.  

The highest paying counties in West Virginia are typically those with strong industries such as healthcare, mining, and natural gas. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest paying county in West Virginia is Monongalia County, with an average salary of around $54,000. This is likely due to the presence of West Virginia University, which employs many people in the area. Other high-paying counties include Harrison County, with an average salary of around $47,000, and Kanawha County, with an average salary of around $46,000. 

The same survey from the US Census Bureau gives further insight this way, with the average household income calculated for each county.  

Here are some of the highest paying counties in West Virginia, according to the US Census Bureau's latest American Community Survey: 

Highest paying jobs in West Virginia

There’s another weighty factor that will influence how much you earn if you live in West Virginia: your job type. Average salaries for various sectors and job roles can vary massively across the state, so it’s absolutely something to consider when looking at salaries by location.  

Zippia has calculated a comprehensive list of annual salaries by job title. You can also find the top 10 highest-paying titles in West Virginia below.  

Frequently asked questions about salaries in West Virginia

What is the average salary in West Virginia by age? 

Salaries in West Virginia are also dependent on various factors, including age. The earning potential of individuals may increase as they gain more experience and advance in their careers.  

According to the US Census Bureau, householders under 25 in West Virginia have a median household income of $36,456. Those between the ages of 25 and 44 have a median income of $60,789, while those aged 45 to 64 have a median income of $66,738. Those who are 65 years and older have a median income of $46,753. 

What is a ‘good’ salary in West Virginia? 

Determining a 'good' salary in West Virginia depends on several factors such as the cost of living, location, and personal circumstances. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income in West Virginia is $48,514 per year. However, the cost of living in West Virginia is lower than in other states, meaning that a lower salary can still provide a comfortable standard of living. 

What is the average salary in West Virginia by hour? 

Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly wage in West Virginia is $19.68 per hour. This amount may vary depending on the industry, experience, and location of the individual. 

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