Public Service West Virginia (WV) Rank #49 of 50

EMT/Paramedic Salary in West Virginia

The median emt/paramedic salary in West Virginia is $32,701 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $38,930.

Median Salary
$32,701
vs National
$-6,229
State Rank
#49 of 50
Cost of Living
84%

EMT/Paramedic Salary Overview in West Virginia (2026)

West Virginia ranks #49 out of 50 states for emt/paramedic compensation. EMT/Paramedic salaries in West Virginia are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $32,701 per year, emt/paramedics in West Virginia earn $6,229 less than the national median of $38,930.

A key advantage of working in West Virginia is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $32,701 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $38,930 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in West Virginia is significant: emt/paramedics at the 10th percentile earn $21,840, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $52,080 — a $30,240 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in West Virginia for this role is Morgantown, where the median reaches $35,037.

Nationally, emt/paramedic employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for emt/paramedics across the country.

EMT/Paramedic Salary in West Virginia by Experience

In West Virginia, an entry-level emt/paramedic earns around $23,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $48,720 per year. The cost of living index in West Virginia is 84% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$23,520
$-4,480 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$33,600
$-6,400 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$48,720
$-9,280 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in West Virginia

Percentile WV Salary
10th Percentile $21,840
25th Percentile $26,040
Median (50th) $32,701
75th Percentile $42,000
90th Percentile $52,080

EMT/Paramedic Salary by City in West Virginia

The largest employment areas for emt/paramedics in West Virginia include Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, and Parkersburg. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a EMT/Paramedic in West Virginia

Education

Most emt/paramedic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. West Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Emergency MedicineCPR/ALSPatient AssessmentTrauma CareCommunicationDriving

Job Outlook in West Virginia

Nationally, emt/paramedic employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). West Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: EMT/Paramedic Salary in West Virginia

How much does a EMT/Paramedic make in West Virginia? ▼
The median emt/paramedic salary in West Virginia is $32,701 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $38,930. Salaries range from $21,840 (10th percentile) to $52,080 (90th percentile).
How much does a EMT/Paramedic make per hour in West Virginia? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $32,701, a emt/paramedic in West Virginia earns approximately $16 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is West Virginia a good state for emt/paramedics? ▼
West Virginia ranks #49 out of 50 states for emt/paramedic pay. The cost of living index is 84% of the national average. Entry-level emt/paramedics earn $23,520, while senior professionals earn $48,720.
How does West Virginia compare to other states for emt/paramedic salary? ▼
The highest paying state for emt/paramedics is Hawaii at $66,181. West Virginia's median of $32,701 ranks #49 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Oklahoma ($33,480) and Arkansas ($32,701).
What is the entry-level emt/paramedic salary in West Virginia? ▼
An entry-level emt/paramedic in West Virginia earns approximately $23,520 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $33,600. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $48,720.
What city in West Virginia pays emt/paramedics the most? ▼
Morgantown is the highest paying city in West Virginia for emt/paramedics, with a median salary of $35,037. Other cities include Charleston and Huntington.