Cost of Living in Hampshire County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hampshire County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hampshire County ranks #316 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 10%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hampshire County, West Virginia
Hampshire balances costs and income well
Hampshire County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.6% sits comfortably below the state average of 16.9% and reflects solid affordability despite a median household income of $60,299 below the national median. Monthly rent of $732 consumes less than 15% of earnings, leaving room for savings and stability.
Better than half of West Virginia counties
Hampshire's 14.6% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the top third statewide, signaling genuine affordability relative to peer counties. The county balances moderate incomes with restrained housing costs effectively.
Highest home values, reasonable rents
Hampshire's median home value of $204,600 is the highest in this analysis, reflecting stronger property appreciation or market demand. Yet rents at $732 monthly remain competitive, and homeownership costs $619—suggesting a market with buy-side advantages over renting.
14.6% of income toward housing
Renters spend $732 monthly, representing 14.6% of Hampshire's $60,299 median income, while homeowners pay $619 monthly. This affordability gap favors buyers, making Hampshire attractive for those seeking to build equity at reasonable cost.
Strong buy-side opportunity here
Hampshire County offers West Virginia's highest home values with affordability still intact, making it ideal for buyers seeking equity growth. If your employment income is stable or growing, Hampshire's market presents genuine wealth-building potential versus renting.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hampshire County
Affordability Verdict
Hampshire County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $732/month — about 14.6% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $732/month rent versus $619/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $113/month cheaper — a 15% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,529/year. With a median household income of $60,299, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Hampshire County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within West Virginia, Hampshire County is more affordable than Monroe County by roughly 8% ($732/mo vs $677/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hampshire County
Rent Burden
14.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,407
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.3%
of gross income
The median home in Hampshire County may be a stretch
Median home value is $204,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,633 vs. your max of $1,407.
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 Hampshire County, West Virginia?
What is the median rent in Hampshire County?
Is Hampshire County affordable?
How does Hampshire County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Hampshire County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Hampshire County, West Virginia? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Hampshire 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.