Average RN Salary in West Virginia: See How Much WV Nurses Make
If you are contemplating a West Virginia nursing career or are already working there, this comprehensive overview of registered nurse salaries in WV delves into the expected earnings for RNs.
Discover typical salary ranges, identify cities with the highest RN salaries in West Virginia, and learn how to factor in the cost of living in West Virginia when planning or negotiating your compensation.
Whether you are currently practicing as a nurse in West Virginia or thinking about entering the profession, this guide to RN salaries in West Virginia is designed to assist you in achieving the remuneration you deserve. Continue reading to access information that can guide you in optimizing your income.
- Average West Virginia RN Salary: $67,640 (Ranks 43 among all states)
- Hourly West Virginia RN Salary: $32.52
- Projected West Virginia RN Employment Growth (2018-2028): 14.9%
Source: BLS, Projections Central
Struggling to meet your deadline?
Get your assignment on Average RN Salary in West Virginia: See How Much WV Nurses Make done by certified MDs and PhDs in the USA. ORDER NOW!
Average RN Salaries in West Virginia
The mean annual RN salary in West Virginia stands at $67,640, ranking 43rd among all states. For context, the average annual RN salary in Kentucky is $67,260, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS reports a median RN salary in West Virginia at $62,390. While RN salaries in West Virginia are notably lower than the national median of $77,600, the cost of living in West Virginia is also lower.
West Virginia RN Salary Range
| Percentile | Average Annual RN Salary | Average Hourly RN Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | $47,450 | $22.81 |
| 25% | $59,640 | $28.67 |
| 50% (Median) | $62,390 | $30.00 |
| 75% | $76,560 | $36.81 |
| 90% | $87,440 | $42.04 |
Source: BLS
Cost of Living Impact on RN Salaries in WV
West Virginia is known for its affordable living costs, with a cost-of-living index of 88 compared to the U.S. average of 100. This means an RN salary in West Virginia has 12% more purchasing power due to lower costs of goods and services. Consequently, the average adjusted RN salary in West Virginia is equivalent to $74,757, positioning the state 34th among all states for cost of living.
- Average RN Salary Adjusted for Cost of Living: $75,757 (Ranked 34th Among All States)
- Cost of Living Index (RPP): 88 (12% Less Than the U.S. Average)
Highest-Paying Cities for RNs in West Virginia
While RN salaries in West Virginia vary, the differences among cities are not as pronounced as in other states. The Huntington-Ashland metropolitan area, also known as the “Tri-State Area,” with around 350,000 residents, boasts higher RN salaries. Charleston, Morgantown, Beckley, and Wheeling also offer competitive salaries for RNs.
Top Paying Cities for Nurses in West Virginia
| City | Average RN Salary |
|---|---|
| Huntington — Ashland, WV — KY — OH | $67,820 |
| Charleston, WV | $67,630 |
| Morgantown, WV | $67,540 |
| Beckley, WV | $64,550 |
| Wheeling, WV — OH | $64,490 |
Source: BLS
Average Salaries for Other Nursing Roles in West Virginia
While RN salaries in West Virginia are above the state’s average, pursuing advanced degrees can lead to higher-paying careers. Graduates with a master of science in nursing (MSN) can become nurse midwives or nurse practitioners, while those with a doctor of nursing practice (DNP) can become nurse anesthetists, earning almost four times the average nurse salary in West Virginia.
- Nursing Assistants: $29,560
- LPN/LVNs: $41,310
- Nurse Midwives: $163,190
- Nurse Practitioners: $104,750
- Nurse Anesthetists: $247,650
Nursing Job Outlook in West Virginia
The projected growth for nursing jobs in West Virginia is promising, with an expected increase in demand for RNs over the next several years. This positive trend makes now a great time to consider a career in healthcare in West Virginia.
Summary
In West Virginia, the average salary for registered nurses (RNs) is $67,640 per year, ranking 43rd among all states. The hourly wage is approximately $32.52, and the projected employment growth for RNs from 2018 to 2028 is 14.9%. While RN salaries in West Virginia are lower than the national median of $77,600, the state’s cost of living is also more affordable.
The salary range for RNs in West Virginia varies significantly. The lowest 10% earn around $47,450, while the top 10% can make up to $87,440. The median RN salary is $62,390. Adjusted for the cost of living, RNs have 12% more purchasing power, with an effective average salary of $74,757, placing West Virginia 34th in terms of adjusted earnings.
The highest-paying city for RNs is the Huntington-Ashland area, with an average salary of $67,820. Other cities, such as Charleston and Morgantown, also offer competitive salaries, making them attractive options for nurses.
In comparison to other nursing roles, RNs earn more than nursing assistants and licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and pursuing advanced degrees can lead to higher-paying positions. Nurse midwives and nurse practitioners can earn significantly more, with salaries reaching up to $163,190 and $104,750, respectively. Nurse anesthetists can command salaries as high as $247,650, nearly four times the average RN salary in the state.
With a growing demand for healthcare services, now is an excellent time to consider a nursing career in West Virginia. For those looking for resources, online nursing papers, custom nursing papers, and top nursing essays are available to support nursing assignments and nursing exams, ensuring success in this rewarding field. Access to the best nursing research and online nursing essays can further aid your journey as a nurse.
Dont wait until the last minute.
Provide your requirements and let our native nursing writers deliver your assignments ASAP.