Cost of Living in Monroe County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Monroe County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Monroe County ranks #24 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 1%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Monroe County, West Virginia
Monroe County rents below national average
Monroe County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.9% beats the national average of 16.9%, delivering above-average housing affordability despite below-average median income. With rents of $677/month and income of $54,508, Monroe County offers solid value for budget-conscious renters.
Strong affordability among state peers
Monroe County's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks in the top tier of West Virginia counties, outperforming the state average of 16.9%. The county's favorable rental conditions reflect low rents relative to local income levels.
Balanced costs in southern region
Monroe County's $677/month rent falls between Mineral County's $684 and Mercer County's $813, while its median income of $54,508 sits in the middle of regional peers. This balance creates one of the region's more stable affordability profiles.
Ownership costs comparable to rents
Renters spend $677/month (14.9% of income), while homeowners allocate $568/month (12.5%)—a modest $109 gap favoring ownership. The median home value of $146,100 positions Monroe County as an accessible market for first-time buyers seeking stability.
Steady ground for Appalachian living
Monroe County delivers balanced affordability and moderate housing costs—appealing to those seeking neither extreme bargains nor premium markets. Compare this profile against Mineral County's higher income or Mingo County's lower rents to find your ideal fit.
Cost of Living Advisory: Monroe County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Monroe County is affordable. The median rent is $677/month against a median household income of $54,508, putting rent at 14.9% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Monroe County is $677/month, while owner costs run $568/month. Owning saves approximately $109/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $27,080/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $24,343/year. With a median household income of $54,508, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Monroe County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Hampshire County where rent averages $732/month, Monroe County is approximately 8% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Monroe County
Rent Burden
14.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,272
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Monroe County
Median home value is $146,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,166 vs. your max of $1,272.
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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