Average Rent in Mercer County, WV🔻 4th cheapest in WV

Mercer County, WV has rental prices ranging from $584/month to $1,250/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $683/month — 51% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $47,799/year, spending $683/month on a 1-bedroom represents 17% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Mercer County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $852/month, Mercer 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 Mercer County Rental Market

The Mercer County, WV area has a population of about 59,062 and 30% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Mercer 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 Mercer County, WV without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $27,320. The local median household income of $47,799 exceeds that threshold by $20,479, making Mercer County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Mercer County, WV has an unemployment rate of 4.4%, 0.5 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.

Is Mercer County, WV Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Mercer County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Mercer County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.