What is the average salary in Charleston, WV?
Job seekers in Charleston, WV, can find a range of salary options across various industries. Many people work in retail, healthcare, and education, which are some of the most common sectors in the area. The average yearly salary for these jobs is about $54,885. This means that many people can find good-paying jobs that fit their skills and experience.
Here are some specific salary figures to consider. Most retail jobs pay around $22,000 per year, while healthcare roles can offer up to $119,364 annually. Education jobs range from about $35,909 to $133,273. These numbers show that many sectors provide competitive pay. Whether one is just starting out or has more experience, there are opportunities to grow and earn a good income.
What are the best paying jobs in Charleston, WV?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $145,687
Nurse practitioners provide primary and specialty care. They work in clinics and hospitals, often collaborating with doctors and specialists. Key employers include Charleston Area Medical Center and CAMC Health System.
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Counselor
Average Salary: $127,683
Counselors help individuals and groups improve their mental health. They often work in schools, hospitals, and private practices. Local employers include the state’s Department of Health and Human Resources and private counseling firms.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $108,794
Traveling nurses provide patient care in various locations. They often work in hospitals and clinics on temporary assignments. Agencies like Aureus Medical Group and Travel Nurse Across America place nurses in Charleston and the surrounding areas.
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Regional Manager
Average Salary: $105,742
Regional managers oversee business operations in a specific area. They coordinate staff and ensure goals are met. Companies such as Dollar General and Lowe’s look for experienced managers to lead teams in Charleston.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $105,000
CDL drivers transport goods and materials over long distances. They must have a commercial driver’s license and often work for logistics companies. Key employers in Charleston include Schneider and Covenant Transportation Group.
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Technical Project Lead
Average Salary: $98,706
Technical project leads manage IT projects for organizations. They coordinate teams and ensure projects are completed on time. Companies such as IBM and local tech firms hire for this role in Charleston.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $92,908
Occupational therapists help patients recover from injuries or illnesses. They create personalized treatment plans and work in rehabilitation centers. Local employers include CAMC Health System and St. Joseph’s Hospital.
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Radiologic Technologist
Average Salary: $92,221
Radiologic technologists perform imaging exams like X-rays and MRIs. They work in hospitals and clinics to help diagnose patients. Major employers include Charleston Area Medical Center and local imaging centers.
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Attorney
Average Salary: $91,024
Attorneys provide legal advice and represent clients in court. They work in law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments. Law firms like Jackson Kelly and Steptoe & Johnson seek qualified attorneys in Charleston.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $87,269
Registered nurses provide patient care and coordinate with doctors and other healthcare staff. They work in hospitals, clinics, and home health care settings. Employers include CAMC Health System and St. Mary’s Medical Center.
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What are the best paying jobs in Charleston, WV without a degree?

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Recreation Assistant
Average Salary: $44,560
Manage community programs and activities for all ages. Work at local parks and recreation centers. Help organize events and ensure safe, enjoyable experiences.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $43,847
Oversee daily restaurant operations. Ensure high-quality service and food. Manage staff and handle customer concerns. Experience with local eateries enhances your skills.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $30,773
Maintain outdoor spaces and gardens. Perform tasks like mowing, pruning, and planting. Work for parks, schools, or businesses. Keep outdoor areas clean and attractive.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $30,641
Support servers by taking orders and delivering food. Ensure customers have a pleasant dining experience. Work in various restaurants. Gain experience in the food service industry.
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Barista
Average Salary: $30,513
Prepare coffee and other beverages. Serve customers in a friendly manner. Work in cafes and restaurants. Develop skills in coffee preparation and customer service.
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Server
Average Salary: $30,391
Take customer orders and serve food and drinks. Ensure a positive dining experience. Work in various restaurants. Develop communication and multitasking skills.
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Floor Tech
Average Salary: $30,158
Maintain cleanliness and safety of floors. Use cleaning equipment and supplies. Work in retail stores or warehouses. Ensure a tidy and safe environment.
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To Go Specialist
Average Salary: $29,984
Prepare and package food for takeout orders. Ensure orders are accurate and timely. Work in fast-food or casual dining restaurants. Develop speed and accuracy in food preparation.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $29,445
Prepare ingredients and cook food in a fast-paced environment. Work under pressure to meet orders. Gain experience in a kitchen. Develop cooking and teamwork skills.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $28,478
Assist in kitchen tasks such as food prep and cooking. Support kitchen staff. Learn the basics of kitchen operations. Develop essential kitchen skills.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Charleston, WV?

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CVS Health
Average Salary: $97,847
CVS Health is a leading healthcare company that offers a wide range of health services. They provide pharmacy services, health insurance, and many other health-related services. Employees often enjoy competitive salaries and benefits.
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Amedisys
Average Salary: $88,866
Amedisys offers home health, hospice, and palliative care services. They focus on providing personalized care to patients. Employees benefit from a supportive work environment and good compensation.
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Ryder System
Average Salary: $88,779
Ryder System is a logistics company that provides transportation, supply chain, and fleet management services. They offer stable employment with opportunities for growth and advancement.
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CommuniCare Health Services
Average Salary: $67,462
CommuniCare Health Services offers senior living and post-acute care. They focus on providing compassionate and quality care to their residents. Employees benefit from a caring work environment and decent salaries.
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Select Specialty Hospital
Average Salary: $65,061
Select Specialty Hospital specializes in long-term acute care. They provide critical care services to patients who need extended medical treatment. They offer a supportive environment and fair compensation.
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West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection
Average Salary: $61,110
This department works to protect the environment in West Virginia. They focus on enforcing environmental laws and regulations. Employees enjoy stable government jobs with good benefits.
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West Virginia Department of Transportation
Average Salary: $57,231
The department oversees the maintenance and development of the state's transportation infrastructure. They aim to ensure safe and efficient travel across West Virginia. Employees benefit from stable government positions.
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West Virginia
Average Salary: $54,033
This entry represents the state government jobs in general. Workers in various roles contribute to state operations. The state offers job security and competitive salaries.
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West Virginia Department of Transportation (WV)
Average Salary: $52,552
This department focuses on road construction, maintenance, and traffic management. They ensure safe and efficient transportation routes. Employees benefit from stable government jobs.
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West Virginia Department of Education
Average Salary: $46,309
The department manages public education in West Virginia. They work to improve educational standards and outcomes for students. Employees enjoy stable employment with benefits.
How does the cost of living in Charleston, WV compare to the national average?

Charleston, WV, presents a favorable cost of living compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. The city’s housing index stands at 85, indicating that housing costs are 15% lower than the national average. This affordability can make it easier for residents to manage their housing expenses, potentially allowing for savings in other areas.
In addition to housing, Charleston's groceries cost 92, showing a slight 8% increase over the national average. Utilities also follow closely at 94, meaning residents spend just 6% more than the average American. Transportation costs in Charleston are 90, slightly below the nationwide average. Healthcare, however, is slightly higher at 95, meaning residents pay 5% more for medical services compared to the national average. Overall, Charleston offers a balanced cost of living with only minor increases in a few categories.



