Security in West Virginia


Security Jobs in West Virginia differ by location and job duties. However, there are many roles available with all levels of training and education.

About West Virginia

West Virginia is located in the southern region of the United States and is the only state entirely situated within a mountain range. The Metro Valley region of West Virginia is the urban center of the state featuring Huntington and the state capital of Charleston. The other regions of the state are quite rural, featuring beautiful scenery, skiing and plenty of other outdoor activities. The cost of living in West Virginia is nearly 6 percent less than the national average, and the price for an average home is almost 39 percent less than the national average.

Due to the rural nature of the state, West Virginia has a very low population density. As a result, residents of the state enjoy short commutes, minimal traffic congestion and low crime rates. West Virginia contains some of the most scenic natural beauty in the country, with hills, creeks, mountains and picturesque driving routes. One of the state’s most beautiful areas is Blackwater Falls State Park, offering nature trails, overlooks, and spectacular waterfalls. Although the largest city in West Virginia is Charleston, the Huntington metro area is the largest metropolitan area in the state.

West Virginia Security Education and Financial Aid

West Virginia provides financial aid to students through a variety of grants and scholarships. The West Virginia Higher Education Grant Program provides monetary assistance to qualified undergraduate students who need financial assistance in attending approved educational institutions within the state.

To apply, students must meet a number of requirements including a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 and one full year of West Virginia residency immediately preceding the date of the grant application. West Virginia also provides a number of scholarships including the West Virginia Promise Scholarship. This is a merit-based scholarship program directly tied to the student’s achievements.

Security Employment Outlook in West Virginia

Security jobs will be in demand within a number of West Virginia’s regions in an outlook over the next 7 years. Security-related positions, especially in demand, will be Correctional Officers, Jailors, Patrol Officers, and Security and Fire Alarm Installers. This demand is largely due to the number of correctional facilities located in West Virginia. The West Virginia Division of Corrections operates 15 facilities throughout the state, including correctional centers, correctional complexes, and work release centers.

LocationTotal Security Guard EmploymentAverage Salary
All of United States1,057,100$35,830
West Virginia5,590$28,290
BLS May 2021 employment of Security Guards by State

Unarmed and Armed Security Guard Requirements


Related: