South Charleston, WV

Very Low · 54

West Virginia · Population 13,594 · Updated March 2026

$857
Median Rent / Month
$59,616
Median Income
$144,800
Median Home Value
$752
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in South Charleston

17.3%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in West Virginia

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

5.12%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
6.0%
Sales Tax
0.58%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$10,284
Annual Rent
$3,052
State Income Tax
$840
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

South Charleston is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 54 (where 100 equals the national median), South Charleston residents can expect to pay median rent of $857/month while earning a median household income of $59,616/year.

The median home value in South Charleston, WV is $144,800, with typical monthly owner costs around $752 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 17.3% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

West Virginia has a moderate income tax rate of 5.12%. Combined with a 6.0% sales tax rate and 0.58% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in South Charleston.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in South Charleston

What is the cost of living in South Charleston, WV?
The cost of living index in South Charleston, WV is 54 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $857, median household income is $59,616/year, and the median home value is $144,800.
Is South Charleston, WV affordable?
Yes, South Charleston is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 54. The rent-to-income ratio is 17.3%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in South Charleston, WV?
The median gross rent in South Charleston, WV is $857 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $10,284.
What is the median household income in South Charleston?
The median household income in South Charleston, WV is $59,616 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in West Virginia?
West Virginia has a top income tax rate of 5.12%, a sales tax of 6.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.58%.