Cost of Living in Upshur County, West Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Upshur County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Upshur County ranks #339 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 11%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Upshur County, West Virginia
Upshur rents remain below national norms
At 18.5%, Upshur's rent-to-income ratio sits above the national sweet spot but reflects lower regional wages. The county's median household income of $51,859 trails the national median by $22,896, making housing costs feel steeper despite modest rents of $799 monthly.
Mid-tier affordability within West Virginia
Upshur ranks in the middle of West Virginia's affordability spectrum, with a rent-to-income ratio slightly above the state average of 16.9%. The $799 median rent exceeds the state average by $39, positioning the county as moderately priced for renters.
Competitive with nearby Northern Panhandle
Upshur's $799 rent aligns closely with Wood County's $789, making them comparable options for renters in the region. Both counties offer more affordable housing than Wayne County at $883, while remaining pricier than Wirt County's remarkably low $575.
Renters stretch, owners breathe easier
Renters in Upshur dedicate 18.5% of income to gross rent, while homeowners pay just 16.3% of monthly income toward ownership costs at a median home value of $160,700. The $97 monthly gap between rent ($799) and owner costs ($702) reflects the county's relatively affordable homeownership opportunities.
Upshur offers solid balance for relocators
If you're considering a move to West Virginia, Upshur presents a middle-ground option with moderate rents and reasonable homebuying prices near the state average. Compare these costs against Wood County's similar market or Wirt County's exceptional affordability before deciding where to plant roots.
Cost of Living Advisory: Upshur County
Affordability Verdict
Upshur County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $799/month representing approximately 18.5% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 30.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Upshur County pay $799/month on average, compared to $702/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 12%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,960/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,086/year. With a median household income of $51,859, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Upshur County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within West Virginia, Upshur County is more affordable than Lewis County by roughly 8% ($799/mo vs $737/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Upshur County
Rent Burden
18.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,210
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.2%
of gross income
The median home in Upshur County may be a stretch
Median home value is $160,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,283 vs. your max of $1,210.
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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