Cost of Living in Mason County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Mason County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Mason County ranks #132 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 4%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Mason County, West Virginia
Mason County beats national affordability
At 14.7%, Mason County's rent-to-income ratio outperforms both the national average (16.9%) and West Virginia's state average, making it one of the more affordable rental markets in the region. Despite a median income of $53,454—below the national median of $74,755—renters here spend less of their earnings on housing.
Among West Virginia's most affordable
Mason County ranks in the top tier of West Virginia counties for rental affordability, with a 14.7% rent-to-income ratio that beats nearly all peers. The combination of modest rents ($654/month) and a cost-conscious local economy creates one of the state's gentler housing burdens.
Lowest rents in southern West Virginia
Mason County's $654/month rent is the cheapest among comparable southern counties, undercutting Mingo ($604) and beating Monroe ($677). This affordability advantage persists despite local incomes being below the regional average, making Mason an outlier in the state's housing value proposition.
Ownership costs run lean too
Renters pay $654/month (14.7% of income) while homeowners spend $556/month (12.5%)—both well below state and national norms. Mason County's median home value of $127,400 reflects affordability across both rental and purchase markets.
Best value for budget-conscious Appalachians
Mason County offers the rare combination of low rents, low homeowner costs, and top-tier affordability ratios—ideal for those prioritizing housing savings over higher regional wages. Its rental market stands apart even from neighboring Mingo County, making it worth close consideration.
Cost of Living Advisory: Mason County
Affordability Verdict
Mason County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $654/month representing approximately 14.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 25.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Mason County pay $654/month on average, compared to $556/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 15%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $26,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $23,829/year. With a median household income of $53,454, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Mason County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Mason County sits 8% more expensive than Brooke County ($603/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Mason County
Rent Burden
14.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,247
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Mason County
Median home value is $127,400. Estimated monthly cost: $1,017 vs. your max of $1,247.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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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
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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.
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