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

Firefighter Salary in West Virginia

The median firefighter salary in West Virginia is $43,411 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $51,680.

Median Salary
$43,411
vs National
$-8,269
State Rank
#49 of 50
Cost of Living
84%

Firefighter Salary in West Virginia by Experience

In West Virginia, an entry-level firefighter earns around $26,880, while experienced professionals earn up to $68,880 per year. The cost of living index in West Virginia is 84% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$26,880
$-5,120 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$43,680
$-8,320 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$68,880
$-13,120 vs national

Salary Percentiles in West Virginia

Percentile WV Salary
10th Percentile $24,864
25th Percentile $32,424
Median (50th) $43,411
75th Percentile $59,808
90th Percentile $77,952

Major Cities for Firefighters in West Virginia

The largest employment areas for firefighters in West Virginia include Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, and Parkersburg. Salaries in major metro areas may be higher due to increased demand and cost of living.

Charleston, WV
Metro area for firefighter employment
Huntington, WV
Metro area for firefighter employment
Morgantown, WV
Metro area for firefighter employment
Parkersburg, WV
Metro area for firefighter employment
Wheeling, WV
Metro area for firefighter employment

How to Become a Firefighter in West Virginia

Education

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

Key Skills

FirefightingEmergency MedicalHazmatPhysical FitnessTeamworkEquipment Operation

Job Outlook in West Virginia

Nationally, firefighter employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). West Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.