Cost of Living in Ohio County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ohio County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Ohio County ranks #188 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 6%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ohio County, West Virginia
Ohio County rents strain household budgets
At 17.1%, Ohio County's rent-to-income ratio edges above the national affordability comfort zone, signaling that renters here devote a larger-than-typical share of earnings to housing. Median rent of $823 is substantial for a county where median household income reaches $57,867—22% below the national median of $74,755.
Among West Virginia's tightest markets
Ohio County's 17.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks as one of the state's least affordable, exceeding West Virginia's 16.9% average and placing it in the affordability pressure zone. The median rent of $823 is the second-highest in this group, paired with below-average incomes that amplify the squeeze.
Highest rents, struggling incomes
Ohio County's $823 rent is the second-steepest in its peer group, trailing only Morgan County's $832, but with lower household income ($57,867 vs. Morgan's $63,805). Preston County and Pendleton County both offer lower rents and better affordability ratios, making them tighter alternatives for budget-conscious renters.
Renters bear the brunt of costs
Ohio County renters pay $823 monthly while homeowners carry $689 in monthly mortgage costs—a $134 gap that reflects the rental market's premium. With median household income at $57,867, renters devote 17.1% of earnings to rent, leaving $4,770 annually after housing for a family of four.
Proceed cautiously in Ohio County
Ohio County's higher rents ($823) and strained affordability ratio (17.1%) make it less attractive for budget-focused relocators than neighboring Preston or Pendleton counties. Unless job prospects justify the rent premium, renters should compare alternatives in the region offering lower costs and stronger household incomes.
Cost of Living Advisory: Ohio County
Affordability Verdict
Ohio County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $823/month — about 17.1% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Ohio County pay $823/month on average, compared to $689/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 16%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,920/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $29,529/year. With a median household income of $57,867, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Ohio County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within West Virginia, Ohio County is less affordable than Cabell County by roughly 6% ($823/mo vs $877/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ohio County
Rent Burden
17.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,350
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Ohio County
Median home value is $165,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,320 vs. your max of $1,350.
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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