Average Rent in McDowell County, WV🔻 4th cheapest in WV
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 18,413
Market Overview
McDowell County, WV has rental prices ranging from $645/month to $1,130/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $649/month — 54% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $29,980/year, spending $649/month on a 1-bedroom represents 26% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How McDowell County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $852/month, McDowell County ranks #44 most expensive of the 47 cities tracked in West Virginia — more affordable than 91% of all US cities in our data.
The McDowell County Rental Market
The McDowell County, WV area has a population of about 18,413 and 24% 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 McDowell County, WV have risen by $4/month (0.5%) over the past year, from $848 to $852. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in McDowell County, WV without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $25,960. The local median household income of $29,980 exceeds that threshold by $4,020, making McDowell County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
McDowell County, WV has an unemployment rate of 10.5%, 6.6 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 McDowell 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 | $944 | $950 | $1,246 | $1,746 | — |
| Lincoln County | $495 | $571 | $686 | $865 | — |
| Putnam County | $838 | $843 | $1,106 | $1,515 | — |
| Morgan County | $629 | $733 | $918 | $1,250 | — |
| Martinsburg | $826 | $959 | $1,204 | $1,673 | — |
| Jackson County | $597 | $704 | $862 | $1,140 | — |
Rent or Buy in McDowell County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real McDowell County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in McDowell 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 McDowell CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in WVSee how McDowell County ranks statewide
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