Cost of Living in Hardy County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hardy County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hardy County ranks #935 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 30%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hardy County, West Virginia
Hardy's housing burden rivals worst peers
Hardy County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.0% exceeds the state average (16.9%) and reflects severe national disadvantage, with median household income of just $49,302 paired against $820 monthly rents. One in five dollars earned vanishes to housing, constraining discretionary spending significantly.
Third-worst affordability statewide
Hardy's 20.0% rent-to-income ratio ranks alongside Gilmer and Greenbrier as the state's most challenging housing markets among these peers. The county's low income and relatively high rents combine into a genuine affordability crisis.
High rents squeeze low incomes
Hardy's $820 monthly rent is the second-highest in this analysis, while its $49,302 median income ranks among the lowest. Homeownership costs $562 monthly with a $159,700 median home value, creating buying barriers for typical households despite relatively affordable mortgages.
20% of income devoted to rent
Renters spend $820 monthly, consuming 20.0% of Hardy's $49,302 median income, while homeowners pay $562. This leaves renters with $200+ less monthly flexibility than homeowners, intensifying pressure on households already strapped by regional income constraints.
Affordability challenges require planning
Hardy's combination of high rents and low incomes makes relocation risky without confirmed wage growth or remote income sources. If considering Hardy, prioritize income stability and compare aggressively against neighboring Grant County's superior affordability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hardy County
Affordability Verdict
Hardy County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $820/month — about 20.0% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Hardy County pay $820/month on average, compared to $562/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 31%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $24,086/year. With a median household income of $49,302, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Hardy County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Hancock County where rent averages $766/month, Hardy County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hardy County
Rent Burden
20.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,150
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.7%
of gross income
The median home in Hardy County may be a stretch
Median home value is $159,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,275 vs. your max of $1,150.
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 Hardy County, West Virginia?
What is the median rent in Hardy County?
Is Hardy County affordable?
How does Hardy County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Hardy County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Hardy County, West Virginia? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Hardy 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.