Average Rent in Jackson County, WV↓ Rents falling 0.8% YoY🔻 3rd cheapest in WV
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 207,456
Market Overview
Jackson County, WV has rental prices ranging from $597/month to $1,176/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $704/month — 50% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $58,089/year, spending $704/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Jackson County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $862/month, Jackson County ranks #47 most expensive of the 49 cities tracked in West Virginia — more affordable than 98% of all US cities in our data.
The Jackson County Rental Market
The Jackson County, WV area has a population of about 207,456 and 29% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Jackson County, WV have fallen by $7/month (0.8%) over the past year, from $869 to $862. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Jackson County, WV without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $28,160. The local median household income of $58,089 exceeds that threshold by $29,929, making Jackson County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Jackson County, WV has an unemployment rate of 4.0%, 0.1 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Jackson County, WV Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in WVlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jefferson County | $1,045 | $1,052 | $1,376 | $1,879 | — |
| Lincoln County | $495 | $571 | $686 | $865 | — |
| Putnam County | $829 | $834 | $1,091 | $1,500 | — |
| Morgan County | $682 | $866 | $979 | $1,243 | — |
| Martinsburg | $884 | $949 | $1,215 | $1,682 | — |
| Lincoln County | $612 | $729 | $883 | $1,064 | — |
Rent or Buy in Jackson County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Jackson County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Jackson County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Jackson CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in WVSee how Jackson County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Jackson CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋WV Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections