Cost of Living in Barbour County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Barbour County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Barbour County, West Virginia
Barbour's rent burden tops national norm
Barbour County residents spend 19.9% of income on rent, significantly above the national affordability threshold of 15%. This means the average household here dedicates nearly one-fifth of earnings to housing, compared to a healthier national average that sees renters allocate less of their paycheck to shelter costs.
Housing costs strain Barbour renters most
At 19.9%, Barbour's rent-to-income ratio ranks among West Virginia's worst—well above the statewide average of 16.9%. The county's median rent of $803 is higher than most peers despite lower median household income of $48,347, creating a squeeze for renters here.
Barbour faces tighter squeeze than neighbors
Barbour renters spend a larger share of income on housing than residents of nearby Boone County (17.6%) and Braxton County (15.6%). Only Cabell County's 19.9% ratio matches Barbour's burden, suggesting housing affordability challenges are concentrated in a few West Virginia communities.
Where Barbour income goes
The median household earns $48,347 annually while paying $803 in rent or $497 for mortgage payments monthly. Renters here face a steeper affordability crisis than homeowners; mortgage holders spend just 12.3% of income on housing, while renters surrender nearly 20%.
Comparing housing options in Barbour
If you're considering Barbour County, know that homeownership offers significantly better affordability than renting, with a median home value of $126,000. Compare rental costs here ($803/month) to neighboring Brooke County ($603/month) before deciding where to plant roots.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Barbour County
Rent Burden
19.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,128
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Barbour County
Median home value is $126,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,006 vs. your max of $1,128.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.