Cost of Living in Fayette County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Fayette County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Fayette County ranks #1,536 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 49%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Fayette County, West Virginia
Fayette's affordability gap widens nationally
Fayette County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.7% exceeds both the state average (16.9%) and reflects tighter affordability than most U.S. counties. With median household income at $52,672—$22,083 below the national median—residents face compounded pressure despite rents that appear low in isolation.
Among West Virginia's least affordable
Fayette's 17.7% rent-to-income ratio ranks it below most state peers, signaling housing stress relative to local earnings. The county's median income trails the state average, amplifying the burden even though rents themselves remain modest.
Cheapest rents but weakest incomes
Fayette's $777 monthly rent is the lowest across peer counties, yet its $52,672 median household income is among the weakest. Homeownership costs $583 monthly with a median home value of $104,200, the lowest in the comparison group.
17.7% of income goes to rent
Renters spend $777 monthly on housing, consuming 17.7% of the typical household's $52,672 income. Homeowners pay $583 monthly, but even this modest cost strains budgets in a county where income growth lags state and national trends.
Lowest costs come with income trade-offs
Fayette offers the region's cheapest rents and home prices, but relocating here means accepting lower wage prospects than neighboring counties. Compare local job markets carefully before moving—affordability gains vanish if income declines.
Cost of Living Advisory: Fayette County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Fayette County is affordable. The median rent is $777/month against a median household income of $52,672, putting rent at 17.7% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Fayette County pay $777/month on average, compared to $583/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 25%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,080/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $24,986/year. With a median household income of $52,672, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Fayette County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Morgan County where rent averages $832/month, Fayette County is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Fayette County
Rent Burden
17.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,229
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Fayette County
Median home value is $104,200. Estimated monthly cost: $832 vs. your max of $1,229.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Fayette County, West Virginia?
What is the median rent in Fayette County?
Is Fayette County affordable?
How does Fayette County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Fayette County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Fayette County, West Virginia? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Fayette County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.