Cost of Living in Marlinton, WV

With a cost of living index of 60, Marlinton, WV is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 40% cheaper than the national average and 13% below the West Virginia state average of 73. Marlinton is a small community of 1,050 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Marlinton's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $703 (47% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $90,500 (70% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.1x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Marlinton is $42,386, which is 44% 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 Marlinton. The area sees an average annual temperature of 51.7°F, with summers averaging 70°F and winters around 33°F. Annual rainfall totals 47.2 inches spread over roughly 173 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.