Cost of Living in Mingo County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Mingo County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Mingo County ranks #345 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 11%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Mingo County, West Virginia
Mingo County beats national rent burden
Mingo County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.3% exceeds the national average of 16.9%, but the gap is modest compared to most West Virginia counties. With a median income of $39,527 and rent of $604/month, Mingo offers below-average housing pressure despite below-average earnings.
Lower-middle affordability in West Virginia
Mingo County's 18.3% rent-to-income ratio places it near the state average of 16.9%, making it neither exceptionally burdened nor particularly advantaged. The county's modest rents help offset low incomes, creating middle-tier conditions statewide.
Lowest rents, modest income trade-off
Mingo County's $604/month rent is the lowest among all comparison counties, but median income of $39,527 lags behind most peers except McDowell. This rent advantage keeps affordability ratios competitive despite economic constraints.
Ownership remains more affordable
Renters spend $604/month (18.3% of income), while homeowners allocate $428/month (12.9%)—a $176 monthly advantage for property owners. The median home value of $85,600 reflects Mingo County's lower-cost housing stock across both rental and purchase markets.
Budget-friendly rents, limited income base
Mingo County delivers some of West Virginia's cheapest rents, ideal for those with modest incomes or seeking maximum housing savings. However, prospective residents should investigate employment opportunities carefully, as median income is among the state's lowest.
Cost of Living Advisory: Mingo County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Mingo County is affordable. The median rent is $604/month against a median household income of $39,527, putting rent at 18.3% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $604/month rent versus $428/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $176/month cheaper — a 29% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $24,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $18,343/year. With a median household income of $39,527, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Mingo County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within West Virginia, Mingo County is less affordable than Nicholas County by roughly 10% ($604/mo vs $669/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Mingo County
Rent Burden
18.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$922
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Mingo County
Median home value is $85,600. Estimated monthly cost: $683 vs. your max of $922.
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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