Cost of Living in Bolivar, WV

With a cost of living index of 102, Bolivar, WV is somewhat more expensive than average. Living here is 2% more expensive than the national average and 29% above the West Virginia state average of 73. Bolivar is a small community of 1,317 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Bolivar's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,420 (8% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $253,700 (17% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.1x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Bolivar is $81,641, which is 9% higher 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.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Bolivar. The area sees an average annual temperature of 54.1°F, with summers averaging 74°F and winters around 34°F. Annual rainfall totals 39 inches spread over roughly 121 days.

Everyday prices in the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area tend to run above the national average. Out of 6 common grocery and utility items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced higher 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.