Cost of Living in Lincoln County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lincoln County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lincoln County ranks #453 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 14%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lincoln County, West Virginia
Lincoln's tight budget strains low-income renters
Lincoln County's 17.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the highest in this group, worsening the burden for residents earning just $48,593 annually. At $727 monthly rent, Lincoln householders devote a larger share of tight incomes to housing than the U.S. average suggests is healthy.
Above-average strain for lowest-income county
Lincoln's 17.9% rent-to-income ratio exceeds West Virginia's 16.9% average, hitting the least-affordable tier statewide. Combined with the county's lowest median income ($48,593) in this group, Lincoln residents face the sharpest squeeze.
Cheap rent, but income doesn't match
Lincoln's $727 rent is among the state's lowest, but at $48,593 median income, it's the poorest county here. Logan County is similar ($704 rent, $47,237 income), while Jackson and Lewis offer better income-to-rent ratios despite comparable rents.
Lincoln's precarious affordability math
Lincoln residents earning $48,593 spend $727 on rent (17.9%), leaving little buffer for other necessities on already-stretched incomes. Homeowners fare better at $422 monthly on $103,400 homes, making ownership the clear affordability winner here.
If you're staying, consider buying early
Lincoln County's rock-bottom home values ($103,400) and cheap ownership costs ($422/month) make homeownership a survival strategy for income-constrained households. For renters, Lincoln's low rents help, but income growth elsewhere may offer better long-term prospects.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lincoln County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Lincoln County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $727/month in gross rent, with 23.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Lincoln County pay $727/month on average, compared to $422/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 42%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,080/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $18,086/year. With a median household income of $48,593, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Lincoln County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within West Virginia, Lincoln County is more affordable than Taylor County by roughly 8% ($727/mo vs $672/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lincoln County
Rent Burden
18.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,134
per month
Owner Cost Burden
10.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Lincoln County
Median home value is $103,400. Estimated monthly cost: $825 vs. your max of $1,134.
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 Lincoln County, West Virginia?
What is the median rent in Lincoln County?
Is Lincoln County affordable?
How does Lincoln County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Lincoln County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Lincoln County, West Virginia? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Lincoln 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.