Trades & Labor West Virginia (WV) Rank #48 of 50

Ironworker Salary in West Virginia

The median ironworker salary in West Virginia is $49,450 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $57,500.

Median Salary
$49,450
vs National
$-8,050
State Rank
#48 of 50
Cost of Living
84%

Ironworker Salary Overview in West Virginia (2026)

West Virginia ranks #48 out of 50 states for ironworker compensation. Ironworker salaries in West Virginia are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $49,450 per year, ironworkers in West Virginia earn $8,050 less than the national median of $57,500.

A key advantage of working in West Virginia is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $49,450 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $58,869 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in West Virginia is significant: ironworkers at the 10th percentile earn $30,960, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $79,120 — a $48,160 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 $52,900.

Nationally, ironworker employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for ironworkers across the country.

Ironworker Salary in West Virginia by Experience

In West Virginia, an entry-level ironworker earns around $32,680, while experienced professionals earn up to $75,680 per year. The cost of living index in West Virginia is 84% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$32,680
$-5,320 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$49,880
$-8,120 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$75,680
$-12,320 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in West Virginia

Percentile WV Salary
10th Percentile $30,960
25th Percentile $37,840
Median (50th) $49,450
75th Percentile $64,500
90th Percentile $79,120

Ironworker Salary by City in West Virginia

The largest employment areas for ironworkers 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 Ironworker in West Virginia

Education

Most ironworker positions require a high school diploma + apprenticeship. West Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Structural SteelWeldingBlueprint ReadingRiggingSafety/Fall ProtectionPhysical Stamina

Job Outlook in West Virginia

Nationally, ironworker 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.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Ironworker Salary in West Virginia

How much does a Ironworker make in West Virginia? ▼
The median ironworker salary in West Virginia is $49,450 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $57,500. Salaries range from $30,960 (10th percentile) to $79,120 (90th percentile).
How much does a Ironworker make per hour in West Virginia? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $49,450, a ironworker in West Virginia earns approximately $24 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is West Virginia a good state for ironworkers? ▼
West Virginia ranks #48 out of 50 states for ironworker pay. The cost of living index is 84% of the national average. Entry-level ironworkers earn $32,680, while senior professionals earn $75,680.
How does West Virginia compare to other states for ironworker salary? ▼
The highest paying state for ironworkers is Hawaii at $102,350. West Virginia's median of $49,450 ranks #48 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Kansas ($50,025) and Kentucky ($50,025).
What is the entry-level ironworker salary in West Virginia? ▼
An entry-level ironworker in West Virginia earns approximately $32,680 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $49,880. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $75,680.
What city in West Virginia pays ironworkers the most? ▼
Morgantown is the highest paying city in West Virginia for ironworkers, with a median salary of $52,900. Other cities include Charleston and Huntington.