Cost of Living in Jefferson County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, West Virginia
Jefferson's income cushions high housing costs
Jefferson County's 13.9% rent-to-income ratio is the nation's sweet spot, despite charging $1,103 in monthly rent. The key: a median household income of $95,523—the highest in this group—making housing's bite more manageable than raw numbers suggest.
West Virginia's premium county for homebuying
Jefferson's median home value of $324,500 dwarfs the state trend; homes here cost more than double those in Logan or Lincoln counties. Yet Jefferson residents, earning 28% above the state median, can better absorb this premium.
The region's expensive outlier
Jefferson's $1,103 rent and $324,500 home values far exceed surrounding counties like Harrison ($848 rent, $158,500 homes) and Jackson ($720 rent, $154,600 homes). Jefferson attracts higher-income professionals willing to pay for the premium market.
High income, high costs—balanced trade
Jefferson's $95,523 income supports a 13.9% rent burden ($1,103) and hefty $1,460 monthly owner costs on $324,500 homes. This county reverses the pattern seen elsewhere: housing costs rise, but so do incomes, preserving financial stability.
For professionals seeking urban-style living
Jefferson County suits higher earners ($95K+) comfortable with premium rents and home prices for better job markets and amenities. If your income matches the county average or exceeds it, Jefferson's housing affordability actually rivals national standards.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
13.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,229
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.3%
of gross income
The median home in Jefferson County may be a stretch
Median home value is $324,500. Estimated monthly cost: $2,591 vs. your max of $2,229.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.