Registered Nurse Salary in West Virginia
The median registered nurse salary in West Virginia is $66,600 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in West Virginia (2026)
West Virginia ranks #49 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Registered Nurse salaries in West Virginia are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $66,600 per year, registered nurses in West Virginia earn $14,620 less than the national median of $81,220.
A key advantage of working in West Virginia is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $66,600 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $79,286 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in West Virginia is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $47,068, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $99,056 — a $51,988 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 $71,474.
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for registered nurses across the country.
Registered Nurse Salary in West Virginia by Experience
In West Virginia, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $47,560, while experienced professionals earn up to $94,300 per year. The cost of living index in West Virginia is 84% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in West Virginia
| Percentile | WV Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $47,068 |
| 25th Percentile | $54,776 |
| Median (50th) | $66,600 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,902 |
| 90th Percentile | $99,056 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in West Virginia
The largest employment areas for registered nurses 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 Registered Nurse in West Virginia
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. West Virginia has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in West Virginia
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). West Virginia's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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