West Virginia Speech-Language Pathologist Salary Guide - 2024

Speech Pathologist Programs

by Speech Pathologist Programs Staff

Updated: February 28th, 2024

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are essential in assisting those who struggle with speech and communication, and their pay varies widely based on their region and level of experience. SLPs working in West Virginia can anticipate earning a wage that is competitive with those in other states around the nation.

The average yearly pay for SLPs in West Virginia is $76,790 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2022), which is marginally more than the average compensation for SLPs nationwide, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The pay scale for SLPs in the state can, however, differ greatly, with more seasoned workers typically earning much more. The kind of company and the region within the state can also have an effect on the pay that SLPs can anticipate receiving.

Compared to SLPs who work in rural regions, those who work in urban locations like Charleston and Huntington typically make higher earnings. Additionally, compared to SLPs who work in private practice, those who work in healthcare facilities and schools often make more money.

As a result, SLPs in West Virginia should anticipate earning a competitive wage in comparison to those in other states, with the possibility of earning more depending on experience and location. Before accepting a job offer, it is crucial to do your homework and compare salaries offered by various employers and locales because the salary range for SLPs might vary significantly.

West Virginia Speech-Language Pathologist Salaries – Visualized

Speech-Language Pathologist Salary by Industry in West Virginia

Speech-Language Pathologists Salaries in urban areas of West Virginia

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
Beckley, WV40$69,390
Charleston, WV70$68,740
Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH200$82,000
Morgantown, WV60$80,690
Parkersburg-Vienna, WV40$87,980
Weirton-Steubenville, WV-OH50$72,460
Wheeling, WV-OH70$72,150
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021

Speech-Language Pathologists Salaries in rural areas of West Virginia

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
Southern West Virginia nonmetropolitan area60$65,110
Northern West Virginia nonmetropolitan area220$66,390
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021

What is it like to work as an SLP in West Virginia?

Depending on where you work as a speech-language pathologist (SLP), West Virginia offers a wide range of opportunities. This article will examine what it’s like to work as an SLP in Charleston, Huntington, and Morgantown, three places located inside the state.

The state’s capital, Charleston, provides SLPs with a vibrant and busy atmosphere. With a population of more than 50,000, Charleston offers a variety of job options in educational institutions, medical centers, and private practices. Charleston offers excellent pay for SLPs and has a great demand for their services. In contrast to other cities in the state, the city’s cost of living may be greater.

Another well-liked city in West Virginia for SLPs is Huntington. Huntington, which has a population of approximately 49,000, offers a blend of urban and suburban living, and SLPs working there can anticipate working with a broad community. Numerous institutions and hospital facilities are located in the area, giving SLPs several opportunity to progress in their professions. Huntington’s cost of living may be higher than that of other cities in the state, similar to Charleston.

For SLPs, Morgantown—a 31,000-person college town—offers a distinctive and rewarding experience. SLPs can anticipate working with a varied student body and having access to cutting-edge research and technology because West Virginia University is situated in the area. Additionally, Morgantown is home to a number of educational institutions and medical facilities, which gives SLPs several work options. Compared to Charleston and Huntington, Morgantown has a lower than average cost of living.

Finally, every city in West Virginia has different opportunities and difficulties for SLPs. Before choosing a place, SLPs should investigate and contrast the cost of living, employment prospects, and chances for professional development there.