Cost of Living in Preston County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Preston County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Preston County, West Virginia
Preston County rents remain very affordable
At 14.7%, Preston County's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below both the national affordability threshold and West Virginia's 16.9% state average. Median rent of $753 and household income of $61,373 create a balanced housing market where families retain substantial income for other priorities.
Ties Pendleton as state's best value
Preston County's 14.7% rent-to-income ratio matches Pendleton County as the best-performing in West Virginia within this group, beating the state average of 16.9% by 2.2 percentage points. At $753 monthly rent with $61,373 median household income, Preston County delivers genuine affordability.
Balanced option among equals
Preston County's 14.7% affordability ratio ties Pendleton County, though Preston's $753 rent is slightly higher than Pendleton's $754 (essentially identical) but lower than Morgan County ($832) and Ohio County ($823). Preston County offers the sweet spot: low costs, reasonable incomes, and no affordability pressure.
Moderate costs across tenure types
Preston County renters pay $753 monthly while homeowners carry $618 in mortgage costs, with both groups managing comfortably within the 14.7% affordability threshold. With median household income at $61,373, renters dedicate 14.7% of earnings to housing, leaving approximately $5,200 annually for other household needs.
Preston County: balanced relocation option
Preston County competes directly with Pendleton County for relocation appeal: 14.7% affordability ratio, $753 rent, and $61,373 median income create a no-pressure housing market. With median home values at $157,700, both renters and buyers find genuine value without the affordability strain visible in neighboring Ohio County.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Preston County
Rent Burden
14.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,432
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Preston County
Median home value is $157,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,259 vs. your max of $1,432.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.