Cost of Living in Bethlehem, WV

With a cost of living index of 87, Bethlehem, WV is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 13% cheaper than the national average and 14% above the West Virginia state average of 73. Bethlehem is a small community of 2,568 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Bethlehem's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,291 (2% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $203,000 (33% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.3x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Bethlehem is $87,500, which is 16% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 18% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Bethlehem. The area sees an average annual temperature of 52.2°F, with summers averaging 71°F and winters around 32°F. Annual rainfall totals 37.6 inches spread over roughly 152 days.

Everyday prices in the Wheeling, WV-OH (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

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.