West Virginia, known as the "Mountain State", is one of the most affordable states in the Eastern US with very low housing. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Mountain State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in West Virginia for a single person earning the median income of $48,000/year:
Each category shows how West Virginia compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in West Virginia.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in West Virginia.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in West Virginia:
Housing is the single biggest expense in West Virginia, as it is everywhere. The median home price in West Virginia is $155,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $725/month. With a housing cost index of 57, West Virginia housing is 43% cheaper than the national average.
Housing in West Virginia is a genuine advantage. The low cost of housing frees up income for savings, investments, and discretionary spending that residents of expensive states simply cannot afford.
West Virginia has a state income tax rate of 5.12%. On the median household income of $48,000, you will pay approximately $2,458/year in state income tax ($205/month). This is a moderate rate that most households can absorb.
The average single person in West Virginia spends approximately $365/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $913-$1,095/month. The food cost index of 94 means groceries in West Virginia are 6% below the national average.
Gas prices in West Virginia average $3.05/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $1,830/year in fuel costs.
West Virginia healthcare costs are 11% below the national average (index: 89). The average annual healthcare cost per person in West Virginia is approximately $5,340 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in West Virginia averages $650/month ($7,800/year). This is below the national average, making West Virginia more family-friendly from a financial perspective. Many families in West Virginia find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
West Virginia is an excellent choice for anyone prioritizing affordability. Your dollar stretches 16% further here than the national average. The trade-off may include fewer big-city amenities in some areas, but cities like Charleston and Huntington offer a good balance of affordability and quality of life.
See all West Virginia financial calculators:
West Virginia (WV) has a cost of living index of 84, meaning it is 16% cheaper than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 57. The median rent is $725/month and the median home price is $155,000. West Virginia ranks #3 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in West Virginia is approximately $62,400/year ($5,200/month). For a family of four, aim for $105,600/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($365/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in West Virginia is $48,000.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in West Virginia is approximately $725/month. A two-bedroom averages $979/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown are the most popular metro areas. Housing in West Virginia is affordable compared to the national average.
West Virginia is an excellent choice for affordability. With a cost of living 16% below the national average and median rent of just $725/month, your money goes significantly further here. Top cities include Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown.
The most affordable areas in West Virginia are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within West Virginia, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Charleston metro) and more affordable areas. Parkersburg and Wheeling tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in West Virginia for a single person is approximately $365 ($913 for a family of four). West Virginia food costs are 6% below the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in West Virginia is approximately $130. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $286/month. West Virginia utilities are 3% below the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
West Virginia has a state income tax rate of 5.12%. On the median household income of $48,000, that is approximately $2,458/year in state income tax. This is a moderate rate near the national average.