Average Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary in West Virginia
In West Virginia, professionals in Transportation and Material Moving Occupations can expect an average annual salary of $41,760. This figure is notably below the national average of $48,350, a difference often attributed to regional economic factors and the specific demands of the state's industrial landscape. The prevailing wage in West Virginia reflects a localized market dynamic influenced by industry concentration and the overall economic environment.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $41,760 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 16.9% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $62,350.
- Outlook: With a substantial local workforce of 57,390 individuals employed in Transportation and Material Moving Occupations, the sector represents a significant portion of West Virginia's employment. The location quotient of 0.92 suggests that while the concentration is slightly below the national average, the sheer volume of workers indicates a stable and established presence for these roles within the state's economy. This robust workforce size points to consistent demand and opportunities within the sector.
Salary Overview
The average Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in West Virginia earns-13.6%below the national average.
$20.1
$803
$3,480
Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for West Virginia's Transportation and Material Moving Occupations is not provided, it is reasonable to assume a general trend of salary growth over the past four years, mirroring national economic recovery and inflation. Increased demand for logistics and transportation services, coupled with potential labor shortages, likely contributed to upward pressure on wages, though regional economic conditions may moderate the extent of this growth compared to national averages.
Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Salary Distribution in West Virginia
Career progression within West Virginia's Transportation and Material Moving Occupations typically sees a significant salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and extensive experience can command salaries well above the average. The widening gap between the 25th percentile (entry-level) and the 75th or 90th percentile (senior roles) clearly signifies substantial earning potential and career advancement opportunities.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $25,550 | $12.3 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $31,320 | $15.1 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $36,850 | $17.7 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $52,200 | $25.1 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $62,350 | $30 |
Detailed Transportation and Material Moving Occupations Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$41,760
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$47,186
Adjusted for COL (88.5)
The average annual salary of $41,760 in West Virginia's Transportation and Material Moving Occupations presents a compelling financial picture when considered against the state's Cost of Living Index of 88.5. This index, being below the national average of 100, indicates that everyday expenses such as housing, utilities, and transportation are generally more affordable. Therefore, the nominal salary of $41,760 likely offers a relatively strong purchasing power for residents, making the state an attractive option for those prioritizing affordability.
Job Market Context
57,390
Total Jobs
81.817
Per 1K Jobs
0.92
Location Quotient
West Virginia has 0.92x the national average concentration of Transportation and Material Moving Occupations jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
A location quotient of 0.92 for Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in West Virginia indicates that the concentration of these jobs in the state is very close to the national average. This suggests a balanced job market where the industry is neither significantly overrepresented nor underrepresented compared to the rest of the country. While not a booming sector in terms of relative concentration, the stable presence implies consistent employment opportunities and a competitive, yet accessible, market for professionals.
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Comparing salaries near West Virginia
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Transportation and Material Moving Occupations make in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for a Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in West Virginia is $41,760. This typically ranges from $25,550 for entry-level positions to $62,350 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in West Virginia is 13.6% lower than the national median of $48,350.
Is West Virginia a lucrative place for Transportation and Material Moving Occupationss?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.The average salary of $41,760 is below the national average of $48,350, although the lower cost of living offers some compensation.
Is West Virginia a good place to live for Transportation and Material Moving Occupations?
With a Cost of Living Index of 88.5 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near West Virginia?
Some top paying nearby cities include Charleston, WV ($42,990) and Beckley, WV.
How does West Virginia's average salary compare to the national average for this field?
The average annual salary in West Virginia for Transportation and Material Moving Occupations is $41,760, which is lower than the national average of $48,350.
What is the concentration of Transportation and Material Moving jobs in West Virginia?
West Virginia has a location quotient of 0.92 for these occupations, meaning the concentration is slightly below the national average.
How does the cost of living in West Virginia affect the salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 88.5, West Virginia is more affordable than the national average, which helps to offset the lower nominal salary.
What is the total number of workers in this sector in West Virginia?
There are 57,390 individuals employed in Transportation and Material Moving Occupations in West Virginia.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 57,390 employees in the West Virginia area with a job density of 81.817 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Transportation and Material Moving Occupations • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in West Virginia