Cost of Living in Monongalia County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Monongalia County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Monongalia County ranks #1,468 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 47%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Monongalia County, West Virginia
Monongalia County's rents run above average
Monongalia County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.1% edges above the national average of 16.9%, driven by the region's highest median rent of $943/month. Despite a respectable median income of $62,704, Monongalia renters face steeper housing costs than the typical American household.
Highest rents in West Virginia
Monongalia County's median rent of $943 is the highest in the state, and its 18.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the worst affordability conditions. The county's economic strength (driven by university presence and professional employment) drives both higher incomes and substantially higher rents.
Urban premium over rural peers
Monongalia County's $943/month rent exceeds Marshall County's $823 by $120 and Mineral County's $684 by $259, reflecting its status as West Virginia's most developed urban center. Yet even with higher income ($62,704), Monongalia renters face the state's toughest rent burden.
Both renting and buying cost premium
Renters allocate $943/month (18.1% of income) while homeowners spend $974/month (15.5%)—both substantially higher than any peer county. The median home value of $254,200 reflects Monongalia's position as West Virginia's most expensive housing market, driven by strong local economy and university demand.
Premium market for premium opportunities
Monongalia County commands the highest housing costs in West Virginia, reflecting its concentration of professional jobs, higher education, and urban amenities. Relocate here if career advancement justifies the cost premium—compare against more affordable rural counties if budget is your primary concern.
Cost of Living Advisory: Monongalia County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Monongalia County is affordable. The median rent is $943/month against a median household income of $62,704, putting rent at 18.0% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Monongalia County is $943/month, while owner costs run $974/month. Renting saves approximately $31/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $37,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,743/year. With a median household income of $62,704, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 33.0% of renter households in Monongalia County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within West Virginia, Monongalia County is more affordable than Wayne County by roughly 7% ($943/mo vs $883/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Monongalia County
Rent Burden
18.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,463
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.6%
of gross income
The median home in Monongalia County may be a stretch
Median home value is $254,200. Estimated monthly cost: $2,029 vs. your max of $1,463.
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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