Cost of Living in Wise, VA

With a cost of living index of 68, Wise, VA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 32% cheaper than the national average and 36% below the Virginia state average of 104. Wise is a small community of 2,940 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Wise's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $782 (41% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $118,100 (61% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.7x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Wise is $44,234, which is 41% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 21% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Wise. The area sees an average annual temperature of 56.6°F, with summers averaging 74°F and winters around 39°F. Annual rainfall totals 44 inches spread over roughly 138 days.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.