Genetic Counselor Salary in Parkersburg, WV: $70,192 (2026)

Genetic Counselor Pay in Parkersburg: What to Expect (2026)

Parkersburg offers a median genetic counselor salary of $70,192, which is $3,600 below the West Virginia state average of $73,792. Compared to the national median of $89,990, Parkersburg pays below the national benchmark for this role.

One of Parkersburg's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 80% of the national average. This means the $70,192 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $87,740 in an average-cost city. This makes Parkersburg an attractive option for genetic counselors seeking strong real-dollar compensation.

The salary range for genetic counselors in Parkersburg spans from $46,800 at the 10th percentile to $101,400 at the 90th percentile — a $54,600 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $48,360, while senior genetic counselors with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $97,500. Parkersburg is a smaller market (pop. 29,675), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.

Genetic Counselor Salary in Parkersburg by Experience

In Parkersburg, an entry-level genetic counselor earns around $48,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $97,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 80% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$48,360

$-13,640 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$70,980

$-20,020 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$97,500

$-27,500 vs national

Percentile	Parkersburg	WV State	National
10th Percentile	$46,800	$49,200	$60,000
25th Percentile	$57,720	$60,680	$74,000
Median (50th)	$70,192	$73,792	$89,990
75th Percentile	$84,240	$88,560	$108,000
90th Percentile	$101,400	$106,600	$130,000

Percentile

Parkersburg

10th Percentile

$46,800

25th Percentile

$57,720

Median (50th)

$70,192

75th Percentile

$84,240

90th Percentile

$101,400

How to Become a Genetic Counselor in Parkersburg

Education

Most genetic counselor positions require a master's degree. Parkersburg and the surrounding West Virginia area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

GeneticsPatient CounselingPedigree AnalysisGenetic TestingCommunicationEthics

Job Outlook

Nationally, genetic counselor employment is projected to grow 26% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Parkersburg may vary based on local industry and population growth.

Frequently Asked Questions: Genetic Counselor Salary in Parkersburg

How much does a Genetic Counselor make in Parkersburg, WV? ▼

The median genetic counselor salary in Parkersburg, West Virginia is $70,192 per year, which is 22% below the national median of $89,990. Salaries range from $46,800 (10th percentile) to $101,400 (90th percentile).

How much does a Genetic Counselor make per hour in Parkersburg? ▼

Based on the median annual salary of $70,192, a genetic counselor in Parkersburg earns approximately $34 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.

How does Parkersburg compare to the West Virginia state average for genetic counselor pay? ▼

Parkersburg's median genetic counselor salary of $70,192 is 4.9% below the West Virginia state average of $73,792. The local cost of living index is 80% of the national average.

What is the cost of living in Parkersburg, WV? ▼

Parkersburg has a cost of living index of 80% compared to the national average. This means a genetic counselor salary of $70,192 in Parkersburg has more purchasing power than the same salary in an average-cost city.

What qualifications do I need to become a genetic counselor in Parkersburg? ▼

Most genetic counselor positions in Parkersburg require a master's degree. Key skills include Genetics, Patient Counseling, Pedigree Analysis, Genetic Testing. The job market is projected to grow 26% nationally over the next decade.

Genetic Counselor Salary in Parkersburg, West Virginia