West Virginia is known as a mountain state, full of natural beauty.
The state also has a strong economic cost of living for those contemplating moving here.
West Virginia provides such a wide range of options if you’re looking at your budget carefully.
Not only will these cities on this list provide you with affordable housing options, but they will also provide you with a high quality of life.
You’ll be able to take advantage of unique amenities, amazing neighborhoods, and much more.
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13 of the Cheapest Places to Live in West Virginia
1. Wheeling
Wheeling, WV, is known as one of the most affordable towns in the entire state.
If you’re wondering why, it’s mainly due to the median home value of $110,900.
In addition to that, renters can take advantage of affordable rent.
Rent averages around $760 a month for a two-bedroom apartment.
This number is well below what people pay in the country.
Moreover, Wheeling has a score of 79.0122 on the affordability index.
There are several popular attractions located in Wheeling.
For instance, Wheeling is infamous for having various cultural landmarks, such as the Victoria Theater.
The Wheeling Suspension Bridge is also worth checking out.
2. Martinsburg
Martinsburg is also highly favored in terms of affordability in West Virginia.
The population here is 17,517, and the town has a median income of $44,363.
But what about those interested in buying a home?
You will pay an average of $162,200 for a home in Martinsburg.
Martinsburg offers the perfect combination of a good quality of life and affordable costs.
Renters pay an average of $1,095 for a two-bedroom apartment in Martinsburg, which is also well below the national average.
You’ll find many attractions worth visiting around town, including the Martinsburg Roundhouse and the Belle Boyd House.
3. Charleston
Many have heard of and are familiar with Charleston, West Virginia.
Believe it or not, it also made the list as one of the most affordable places to live.
Just over 47,000 people call Charleston home, as it provides a thriving city life for all.
The average home value is close to $156,900, while renters pay an average of $859 for a two-bedroom apartment.
What can residents enjoy around the city without breaking their pockets?
There’s a lot to do in Charleston, including on Capitol Street, where you’ll find various shopping and entertainment options.
The West Virginia State Museum is also a popular attraction.
4. Morgantown
Morgantown is home to West Virginia University and is also on the list for affordable living.
Nearly 30,953 people are living in Morgantown, as it has a lot to offer.
The average cost of a home in Morgantown is $215,000, while the average rent paid for a two-bedroom is $732.
Morgantown is perfect for both young professionals and students alike.
The average household income in the city is $42,474.
But what about things to do? Morgantown offers various attractions, including the Art Museum of West Virginia University, the Metropolitan Theater, the Morgantown Farmers Market, and much more.
5. Clarksburg
Clarksburg is also worth adding to your list of places to check out in terms of affordability.
Just about 15,743 people are living in Clarksburg.
The overall affordability index score in the city is 33.2884.
Whether you’re interested in buying or renting, you’ll surely find something to suit your budget.
The average median home sale price is $88,600, while the average rent for a two-bedroom is $1,800.
Clarksburg offers plenty of things to do in town, including various community events.
Some of these events include the West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival.
Moreover, you can check out various performances at the Clarksburg Amphitheater.
6. Bluefield
Don’t forget to add Bluefield to your list of the most affordable places to live in West Virginia.
Rent can average anywhere between $600 and $1,500 in the city.
Overall, utilities in Bluefield are nearly 80% lower than the national average.
While Bluefield is a much smaller town compared to others on this list, it offers plenty of amenities, including recreational facilities, shops, and malls.
Bluefield is known as nature’s air-conditioned city.
But can you guess why?
That’s because Bluefield experiences beautiful summers with very minimal humidity and comfortable temperatures.
7. Dunbar
Dunbar has a median home sale price of $112,042, making it yet another ideal option for those looking for the most affordable towns in West Virginia.
Rent in the city can range anywhere from $850 to $2,200 a month, depending on the number of bedrooms you have.
Nearly 7,000 people call Dunbar home.
And while this is also a small town, it offers diverse business options, including healthcare, retail, coal mining, and landscape.
Some of the most notable companies in the city are Maverick Coal Mining, Dunbar Community Center, Medical Care Corporation, and Turtle Creek Mall.
8. Huntington
Huntington is another wonderful area to reflect on if you’re looking for affordable living in West Virginia.
The median home sale price is just $113,129, while the average rent paid is $872.
The average rent is nearly $1,128 lower than the national average.
Moreover, utilities are 11.7% below the national average.
Huntington is known for being home to the Huntington Museum of Art.
In addition, Huntington has various parks and rivers close by and offers ample opportunities to enjoy activities including boating, fishing, hiking, and much more.
9. Moundsville
Also making the list of being one of the most affordable places to live in West Virginia is Moundsville.
Moundsville has a median home price of $118,202 and an average rent of $1,200.
However, rent can range anywhere from $675 to $1,400.
In addition, utilities are 12.6% below the national average.
Moundsville is a charming town that provides residents with an escape from urban living.
Residents will have easy access to public transit and shopping markets.
Activities available in town include fishing, golfing, shopping, and various parks and trails.
10. Beckley
Beckley is the perfect town for you if you’re looking for something that offers comfortable living and a variety of attractions.
The median home sale price in Beckley is $122,021.
Rent can range anywhere from $425 to $1,500, depending on the number of bedrooms you have.
Beckley is referred to as the smokeless coal capital of the country.
It’s also known for having famous attractions, including the Tamarack Marketplace and the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine.
Moreover, Beckley offers a vigorous educational infrastructure, with campuses such as Concord University and the University of Charleston nearby.
11. Weirton
Weirton is worth considering in terms of affordability in West Virginia.
The median home sale price is $125,925, while the average rent paid is around $750 per month.
Weirton is also known as the best place to live in the state, as it has seen a median home sale price decline of 1.2% within the last several months.
Moreover, Weirton is recognized as being the safest city in West Virginia, according to recent statistics.
If you’re looking for things to do in the city, check out the famous Williams Golf & Country Club, Holiday Lanes, and the Weirton Area Museum and Cultural Center.
12. Falling Waters
Falling Waters offers a median home sale price of $239,000.
It’s a small town, with only 1,000 people living in it.
Washington, D.C., is located 70 miles away for those looking to have easy access to additional amenities.
But what about amenities to do within the city?
Falling Waters does offer quite a bit for residents living here.
For example, you can check out Falling Waters Waterfalls, and Potomac River Views, or camp at one of the many available campgrounds in the area.
13. Ranson
Finally, consider adding Ranson to your list if you’re looking for affordable places to live in West Virginia.
Ranson has an average home sale price of $275,000.
It’s also located 70 miles from Washington, D.C.
The median household income in Ranson is $74,977, and it is made up of about 5,000 residents.
The average cost of a home in Ranson is nearly $20,000 below the state’s average.
If you can see yourself living in Ranson, be sure to check out one of the many parks in town or visit Charles Town.
West Virginia Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: West Virginia Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: HIGH
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in West Virginia?
The actual cost of living in any state should not be the final determination of whether you decide to move there.
Instead, you should evaluate individual towns within the state in terms of affordability.
West Virginia’s cost of living is 9% below the national average.
Housing is 20% below the national average, and utilities are 6% lower.
Groceries, clothing, and food are all 6% below the national average.
Why is West Virginia so affordable to live in?
West Virginia is a perfect place to consider if you’re looking for affordable housing and an affordable cost of living.
West Virginia does not have any state income taxes.
In addition, property taxes are significantly low, which makes this state attractive to live in.
Does West Virginia offer affordable housing programs?
Affordable housing programs are available in West Virginia.
There are various programs available in the state.
For example, eligible persons may qualify for rental assistance if they are considered low-income.
In addition, there are programs available that assist homeowners with mortgage payments, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and much more.
