Cost of Living in Buckhannon, WV

With a cost of living index of 68, Buckhannon, WV is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 32% cheaper than the national average and 5% below the West Virginia state average of 73. Buckhannon is a smaller community of 5,144 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Buckhannon's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $800 (39% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $152,000 (50% 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 Buckhannon is $48,720, which is 35% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 20% 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 Buckhannon. The area sees an average annual temperature of 54.9°F, with summers averaging 73°F and winters around 36°F. Annual rainfall totals 44.8 inches spread over roughly 168 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.