West Virginia Salaries 2025
Exceptional affordability amid economic transition
Median Household Income
West Virginia Salary Overview 2025
West Virginia offers America's most affordable living but faces significant economic challenges. The state's median household income of $50,000 is the second-lowest nationally, but the cost of living (84 index, 16% below average) creates purchasing power that partially compensates.
Coal's decline has transformed the economy. Healthcare has become the dominant employer. Natural gas (Marcellus Shale) provides some energy employment. The state is actively recruiting remote workers with Ascend WV program offering $12,000+ to relocate.
For those with remote income or healthcare careers, West Virginia offers exceptional value. Mountain scenery, outdoor recreation, and tight-knit communities appeal to some. Professional opportunities beyond healthcare remain very limited. For comprehensive salary data, see salary trends 2025.
Salaries by West Virginia Region
Charleston Metro – State Capital
Median Household Income: $52,000
Charleston is the largest city with state government, CAMC (largest hospital), and chemical industry. Very affordable ($175,000 median home). Limited professional diversity but stable healthcare and government employment.
Morgantown
Median Household Income: $48,000
West Virginia University creates education and healthcare (WVU Medicine) employment. College-town culture. Affordable ($280,000 median) with Pittsburgh access (75 miles).
Eastern Panhandle (Martinsburg)
Median Household Income: $62,000
DC commuter area with higher incomes. Federal workers, Procter & Gamble facility. Higher costs for WV ($300,000 median) but still far below DC.
| Region | Median Income | Median Home | Key Industries |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charleston | $52,000 | $175,000 | Healthcare, Government |
| Morgantown | $48,000 | $280,000 | Education, Healthcare |
| Eastern Panhandle | $62,000 | $300,000 | DC Commuters, Manufacturing |
Top Industries in West Virginia
Healthcare
Healthcare is WV's economic anchor. WVU Medicine, CAMC, and regional hospitals are major employers. Physicians $250,000-$400,000+ (significant rural incentives), nurses $50,000-$70,000. Healthcare provides most professional employment statewide.
Energy (Natural Gas)
Marcellus Shale natural gas has partially offset coal decline. Engineers $80,000-$130,000, field workers $50,000-$80,000. Industry is cyclical with commodity prices.
Remote Work (Ascend WV)
West Virginia's Ascend WV program offers $12,000+ to remote workers who relocate. Outdoor recreation package included. Remote workers with external income find exceptional value—$100K salary goes very far in WV.
| Industry | Entry Level | Mid-Career | Senior Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare (Physicians) | $250,000 | $320,000 | $400,000+ |
| Natural Gas Engineering | $65,000 | $95,000 | $130,000+ |
| Education | $38,000 | $50,000 | $70,000+ |
West Virginia Cost Advantage
| Expense | West Virginia | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Housing Index | 62 | 100 |
| Median Home Price | $160,000 | $420,000 |
| Median Rent (2BR) | $750 | $1,400 |
A $50,000 salary in WV provides purchasing power equivalent to $70,000+ in many metros. Remote workers earning coastal salaries in WV can achieve exceptional financial outcomes.
Highest Paying Jobs in West Virginia 2025
| Occupation | Average Salary | Top 10% Earn |
|---|---|---|
| Physicians/Surgeons | $270,000 | $400,000+ |
| Dentists | $155,000 | $230,000+ |
| Pharmacists | $115,000 | $135,000+ |
| IT Directors | $105,000 | $140,000+ |
| Mining Engineers | $90,000 | $125,000+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is West Virginia's Ascend WV program worth it?
For remote workers—potentially yes. $12,000+ plus outdoor recreation package is meaningful. Combined with WV's low costs, remote workers can build significant savings. Research broadband availability in specific areas.
Are there professional jobs in WV?
Healthcare—yes, strong demand. Government and education—stable. Beyond that—very limited. Most professionals either work in healthcare, commute to adjacent states, or work remotely. Economic diversification has been challenging.