West Virginia’s major industries make it an attractive option for those considering a move to the Mountain State. Known for its rich natural resources, strong manufacturing presence, and growing healthcare sector, West Virginia offers a wide range of career opportunities. Whether you’re browsing homes for sale in Charleston or apartments in Morgantown, this state combines affordability with career possibilities. With its beautiful landscape and close-knit community atmosphere, West Virginia is attractive to homebuyers and renters alike. Moving to West Virginia means exploring opportunities in industries that boost the state’s economy and provide long-term growth.
West Virginia Overview: Home Prices, Income, and Employment
Top Employers in West Virginia
West Virginia University Health System: 21,700 employees Walmart: 12,600 employees Charleston Area Medical Center: 8,000 employees West Virginia University: 6,100 employees Kroger: 4,300 employees
West Virginia’s 10 Major Industries
1. Energy production
Major Employers: American Consolidated National Resources (West Virginia location), Consol Energy (West Virginia location), EQT Corporation (West Union location)
Energy production remains the backbone of West Virginia’s economy. Coal mining and natural gas extraction create thousands of jobs, including those for engineers, equipment operators, environmental specialists, and more. The state’s vast reserves of fossil fuels ensure stable jobs and a thriving energy sector. For those working in the energy sector, West Virginia offers stable employment opportunities and affordable housing options. The industry plays an important role in attracting professionals looking for a reliable career.
Considering moving to West Virginia to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Charleston or West Union.
2. Healthcare
Major Employers: WVU Medicine (Morgantown), CAMC Health System (Charleston), Mon Health (Morgantown)
West Virginia’s healthcare industry continues to grow, offering careers in hospitals, clinics, and specialty care. Job openings include registered nurses, medical technicians, administrative staff and more. Led by WVU Medicine and CAMC Health System, we provide quality health care and employ thousands of people across the state. The strengths of the healthcare sector make it attractive to professionals looking for career stability and growth. This industry expansion is key for people interested in moving to areas with strong healthcare networks.
Considering moving to West Virginia to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Morgantown or Charleston.
3. Manufacturing
Major Employers: Toyota Motor Manufacturing (Buffalo), Procter & Gamble (West Virginia), NGK Spark Plugs (Sissonville)
Manufacturing plays an important role in West Virginia’s economy, producing automobiles, consumer goods, and industrial materials, accounting for more than 9 percent of the state’s total output. Employees can find opportunities as machine operators, production managers, and quality control specialists. Companies such as Toyota and Procter & Gamble are investing heavily in the state, increasing job opportunities. Manufacturing provides stable employment for both skilled and entry-level workers.
Considering moving to West Virginia to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Buffalo or Sissonville.
4. Education
Major Employers: West Virginia University (Morgantown), Marshall University (Huntington), Shepherd University (Shepardstown)
The education sector offers many employment opportunities in teaching, administration, and research. West Virginia’s higher education institutions are major employers that draw scholars, support staff, and researchers to the state. Schools like WVU and Marshall University offer competitive salaries and great resources for their employees. Those interested in education-related careers can benefit from the state’s small cities and strong sense of community. This industry is attractive to professionals looking for long-term stability.
Considering moving to West Virginia to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Morgantown or Huntington.
5. Tourism and hospitality
Major Employers: Snowshoe Mountain Resort (Snowshoe), The Greenbrier (White Sulfur Springs), Stonewall Resort (Roanoke)
Tourism is a growing industry in West Virginia due to its natural beauty and outdoor recreation options. In 2023, tourists spent more than $6.3 billion in the state. Jobs range from resort management and culinary services to adventure guides and hospitality roles. Resorts like The Greenbrier and Snowshoe Mountain provide year-round employment for people in the hospitality and tourism industry. The state’s scenic mountains and parks make it a hub for both tourists and job seekers.
Considering moving to West Virginia to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Lewisburg or Snowshoe.
6. Technology
Major Employers: Leidos (Morgantown location), IBM (West Virginia location), Infor (West Virginia location)
West Virginia’s technology industry is growing and offers jobs for software developers, IT support staff, and cybersecurity specialists. The industry has a $2.5 billion impact on the state’s economy. Companies such as Leidos and IBM operate in the state, attracting technical talent with competitive wages. The technology sector creates opportunities for remote workers and innovators looking to escape expensive urban markets.
Considering moving to West Virginia to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Morgantown or Bridgeport.
7. Retail industry
Major Employers: Walmart (West Virginia location), Kroger (West Virginia location), Sheets (West Virginia location)
The retail industry supports more than 150,000 jobs throughout West Virginia, providing employment for managers, sales associates, and logistics staff. Large chains and local stores offer stable positions and opportunities for growth. This industry thrives in communities where shopping centers and local businesses drive economic activity. A career in retail is perfect for those looking for flexible work or entry-level work.
Considering moving to West Virginia to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Huntington or Charleston.
8. Agriculture and forestry
Major Employers: Pilgrim’s Pride (Moorefield location), Poultry Plants (West Virginia location), Weyerhaeuser (West Virginia location)
Agriculture and forestry are significant contributors to West Virginia’s economy, creating jobs for farm managers, technicians, and production workers. Poultry production and timber logging are important sectors that sustain rural areas. Employers like Pilgrim’s Pride offer stable roles to food production workers. The state’s lush forests and farmland attract people seeking outdoor-oriented careers. This industry highlights West Virginia’s natural beauty while also providing economic opportunity.
Considering moving to West Virginia to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Moorefield or Elkins.
9. Transportation and logistics
Major Employers: FedEx (West Virginia location), UPS (West Virginia location), CSX Transportation (West Virginia location)
The Department of Transportation and Logistics supports West Virginia businesses and residents. Employees can find opportunities as drivers, warehouse operators, and logistics coordinators. National employers like FedEx and CSX ensure job security throughout the state. This industry is vital to West Virginia’s economy, connecting communities and supporting supply chains.
Considering moving to West Virginia to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Charleston or Parkersburg.
10. Chemical manufacturing
Major Employers: Dow Chemical (South Charleston location), DuPont (West Virginia location), Chemours (West Virginia location)
Chemical manufacturing is a fundamental industry in West Virginia, offering careers in engineering, safety management, and operations. Companies like Dow Chemical and DuPont have had a long-standing presence and provide reliable employment. The chemical industry plays an important role in West Virginia’s economic stability. It attracts workers seeking well-paying professional jobs in small communities.
Considering moving to West Virginia to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in South Charleston or Nitro.
