Cost of Living in Summers County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Summers County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Summers County ranks #515 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 16%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Summers County, West Virginia
Summers struggles with severe affordability gap
Summers County's rent-to-income ratio of 26.0% is the worst in West Virginia and far exceeds the national average of roughly 15%. With a median household income of just $42,544—43% below the national median—renters here face crushing housing burdens.
Summers ranks as state's least affordable
At 26.0%, Summers' rent-to-income ratio dramatically exceeds West Virginia's 16.9% average, making it the state's least affordable county. Median rent of $922 is the highest in the state, paired with the lowest incomes, creating a perfect affordability storm.
Summers rents top all surrounding counties
Summers' median rent of $922 exceeds every neighboring county—Raleigh ($847), Roane ($590), and Ritchie ($583)—despite its residents earning less. This disadvantageous combination makes Summers an outlier in the region.
Over one-quarter of income goes to rent
Renters spend $922 monthly—a staggering 26.0% of the $42,544 median income—leaving little for other necessities. Homeownership at $464 monthly is more manageable, but median home value of $126,100 remains challenging for low-income buyers.
Summers requires careful financial planning
Summers County poses serious affordability challenges; renters spend over one-quarter of income on housing while earning the state's lowest median income. Relocate here only if employment offers substantial income boost, or consider Roane or Ritchie for superior affordability.
Cost of Living Advisory: Summers County
Affordability Verdict
Summers County is moderately affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $922/month representing approximately 26.0% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 23.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Summers County is $922/month, while owner costs run $464/month. Owning saves approximately $458/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $19,886/year. With a median household income of $42,544, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Summers County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Putnam County where rent averages $975/month, Summers County is approximately 5% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Summers County
Rent Burden
26.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$993
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.1%
of gross income
The median home in Summers County may be a stretch
Median home value is $126,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,007 vs. your max of $993.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
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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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