How to Become a Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in West Virginia
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors in West Virginia earn a median salary of $55,420/year, which is 15% below the national average. West Virginia has a state income tax of ~3.5%. After taxes and rent, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors takes home approximately $2,305/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors can afford in West Virginia
Becoming a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in West Virginia
Meet education requirements
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors positions in West Virginia typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across West Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors positions in West Virginia require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain West Virginia licensure or certification
West Virginia may require specific licensing or professional certification for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the West Virginia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in West Virginia
West Virginia employs 1,390 educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors. The highest concentrations are in Huntington-Ashland and Parkersburg-Vienna.
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary by metro area in West Virginia
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Huntington-Ashland | $59K | $28.23/hr | 280 |
| Parkersburg-Vienna | $58K | $28.07/hr | 60 |
| Beckley | $58K | $27.96/hr | 80 |
| Wheeling | $58K | $27.81/hr | 100 |
| Morgantown | $53K | $25.59/hr | 120 |
| Weirton-Steubenville | $48K | $23.28/hr | 170 |
| Charleston | $48K | $22.91/hr | 200 |
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors salary range in West Virginia
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors make in West Virginia?▼
The median educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors salary in West Virginia is $55,420 per year ($26.64/hr). This is 15% below the national median of $65,140. Salaries range from $36,840 to $73,670.
What are the requirements to become a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in West Virginia?▼
Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors positions in West Virginia typically require Master's degree. West Virginia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the West Virginia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors afford to live in West Virginia?▼
At the median salary of $55,420, a educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in West Virginia would take home approximately $3,717/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 38% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in West Virginia?▼
The highest paying metro areas for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors in West Virginia are Huntington-Ashland ($58,720), Parkersburg-Vienna ($58,390), Beckley ($58,150). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does West Virginia have state income tax for educational, guidance, and career counselors and advisors?▼
Yes, West Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.5%. On a $55,420 salary, this means roughly $1,967/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.