Cost of Living in Kanawha County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Kanawha County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Kanawha County, West Virginia
Kanawha's rent strain exceeds national typical
Kanawha County residents spend 17.9% of income on rent, among the highest in this group and above the U.S. average of around 15%. At $879 monthly on a $58,887 income, Kanawha renters face tighter budgets than most Americans.
Above-average burden in West Virginia terms
Kanawha's 17.9% rent-to-income ratio edges above the state average of 16.9%, placing it in the less-affordable tier statewide. The median rent of $879 runs $119 higher than West Virginia's $760 norm.
Pricier than rural counterparts
Kanawha's $879 rent tops Jackson ($720), Lewis ($737), and Lincoln ($727), reflecting its larger urban footprint as West Virginia's most populous county. Only Harrison ($848) and Marion ($901) rival its rental rates.
Kanawha's housing takes a bigger slice
Kanawha households earning $58,887 commit $879 to rent (17.9%), while homeowners spend $698 monthly on median-valued homes of just $135,000. The rent burden stands out as notably higher than the ownership cost, a pattern unique in this county group.
Consider owning over renting in Kanawha
If you're flexible on housing type, Kanawha's median home value of $135,000 offers better math than renting at $879 monthly. Owners paying $698 monthly save substantially, making homeownership a smarter financial move than elsewhere in the state.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Kanawha County
Rent Burden
17.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,374
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.2%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Kanawha County
Median home value is $135,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,078 vs. your max of $1,374.
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.