Cost of Living in Matewan, WV

With a cost of living index of 51, Matewan, WV is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 49% cheaper than the national average and 23% below the West Virginia state average of 73. Matewan is a small community of 521 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Matewan's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $356 (73% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $102,100 (67% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 6.6x the median household income — a challenging ratio that puts homeownership out of reach for many residents.

The median household income in Matewan is $15,378, which is 80% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 28% of household income on rent. This is near the 30% threshold that financial experts generally consider the upper limit of affordability. 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 Matewan. The area sees an average annual temperature of 56.5°F, with summers averaging 75°F and winters around 37°F. Annual rainfall totals 45.1 inches spread over roughly 142 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.