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
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.
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
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?
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 QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare 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.