Cost of Living in Gilmer County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Gilmer County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Gilmer County ranks #20 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 1%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Gilmer County, West Virginia
Gilmer faces the nation's rent squeeze
At 18.0%, Gilmer County's rent-to-income ratio ranks among the worst in America, driven by a median household income of just $50,991 paired with $764 monthly rents. This combination leaves residents dedicating nearly one-fifth of earnings to housing—a burden well above national and state norms.
Least affordable county in West Virginia
Gilmer's 18.0% rent-to-income ratio tops all peer counties in this analysis, indicating severe affordability stress. Only Greenbrier and Hardy counties approach this level, but Gilmer's combination of low income and moderate rents creates the steepest burden statewide.
Lowest incomes, highest rent burden
Gilmer's $50,991 median household income is the lowest in the region, while $764 monthly rent is unremarkable—but together they create the steepest housing-to-income ratio. The median home value of $83,300 is also the cheapest, offering entry-level purchase prices but limited wealth-building.
One-fifth of income lost to rent
Renters spend $764 monthly while homeowners pay just $340, yet the rent burden still consumes 18.0% of household income. Even homeownership remains tight, as the median income of $50,991 leaves limited flexibility for other expenses.
Lowest prices hide income challenges
Gilmer's bargain housing comes attached to West Virginia's lowest median incomes, making it risky for job seekers. If stable, higher-wage employment exists in your industry here, the affordability is genuine; otherwise, compare neighboring counties' job markets before committing.
Cost of Living Advisory: Gilmer County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Gilmer County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $764/month in gross rent, with 25.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Gilmer County pay $764/month on average, compared to $340/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 55%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $14,571/year. With a median household income of $50,991, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Gilmer County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within West Virginia, Gilmer County is less affordable than Hardy County by roughly 7% ($764/mo vs $820/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Gilmer County
Rent Burden
18.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,190
per month
Owner Cost Burden
8.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Gilmer County
Median home value is $83,300. Estimated monthly cost: $665 vs. your max of $1,190.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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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
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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.
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