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Barbour County, West Virginia — County Report Card

WV

#28 in West Virginia

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
62.8
County Score
Property Tax 92.3Cost of Living 78.3Disaster Risk 76

County Report Card

About Barbour County, West Virginia

Barbour County Outperforms the National Median

Barbour County earns a composite score of 62.8, placing it well ahead of the national median of 50.0. This score indicates a higher overall quality of life relative to the average American county. The ranking reflects a balance of extreme affordability and low tax burdens.

Matching the Mountain State Standard

The county's 62.8 composite score sits just above the West Virginia state average of 62.0. While it is a competitive locale within the state, it maintains a distinct advantage in property tax rates. Residents benefit from an effective tax rate of 0.427%, which is among the more favorable in the region.

A Haven for Low Tax Burdens

Barbour County excels in fiscal policy with a tax score of 92.3 and a cost score of 78.3. Median monthly rent is remarkably accessible at $803, while the typical home value sits at $126,000. These figures make the county an attractive destination for those prioritizing low fixed expenses.

Income and Water Infrastructure Hurdles

The county faces significant challenges in economic earning power with an income score of only 11.6. Additionally, the water quality score of 25.7 suggests a need for infrastructure investment to match national standards. Improving health outcomes, currently scored at 32.3, remains a secondary long-term priority.

Ideal for Retirees or Remote Workers

With high scores in safety and schools alongside low costs, this county suits families looking to maximize their housing budget. It is particularly well-suited for retirees or remote workers who do not rely on local median household incomes of $48,347. The low tax rate provides a significant boost to those on fixed incomes.

Score breakdown

Tax92.3Cost78.3Safety60.3Health32.3Schools66.9Income11.6Risk76Water25.7Weather66.3
🏛92.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠78.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼11.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡60.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤32.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓66.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡76
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧25.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤66.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨49.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱62.4
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Deep Dives

Barbour County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Barbour County

via TaxByCounty

Barbour's taxes rank low nationally

At 0.427%, Barbour County's effective tax rate sits well below the national median of 0.81%, placing it in the lowest quartile across the country. The median property tax of $538 is roughly one-fifth the national median of $2,690, reflecting both lower home values and a modest tax burden.

Barbour ranks among West Virginia's lowest

Barbour's 0.427% rate falls below the state average of 0.497%, making it one of the more tax-friendly counties in West Virginia. The median tax bill of $538 trails the state average of $699 by about 23%.

Barbour vs. neighboring counties

Barbour's rate is comparable to nearby Braxton County (0.450%) but lower than Berkeley County (0.546%) and Cabell County (0.634%). Among its peer group, Barbour offers relatively modest property tax exposure.

Your annual property tax in Barbour

On the county median home value of $126,000, you'd pay approximately $538 annually—or about $45 per month. Homeowners with mortgages typically see slightly higher bills at $620 due to escrow requirements.

Could you be overassessed?

Many West Virginia homeowners pay more than they should because their properties are overvalued on the assessment roll. If your home's assessed value seems high, filing an appeal with your county assessor could reduce your tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Barbour County

via CostByCounty

Barbour's rent burden tops national norm

Barbour County residents spend 19.9% of income on rent, significantly above the national affordability threshold of 15%. This means the average household here dedicates nearly one-fifth of earnings to housing, compared to a healthier national average that sees renters allocate less of their paycheck to shelter costs.

Housing costs strain Barbour renters most

At 19.9%, Barbour's rent-to-income ratio ranks among West Virginia's worst—well above the statewide average of 16.9%. The county's median rent of $803 is higher than most peers despite lower median household income of $48,347, creating a squeeze for renters here.

Barbour faces tighter squeeze than neighbors

Barbour renters spend a larger share of income on housing than residents of nearby Boone County (17.6%) and Braxton County (15.6%). Only Cabell County's 19.9% ratio matches Barbour's burden, suggesting housing affordability challenges are concentrated in a few West Virginia communities.

Where Barbour income goes

The median household earns $48,347 annually while paying $803 in rent or $497 for mortgage payments monthly. Renters here face a steeper affordability crisis than homeowners; mortgage holders spend just 12.3% of income on housing, while renters surrender nearly 20%.

Comparing housing options in Barbour

If you're considering Barbour County, know that homeownership offers significantly better affordability than renting, with a median home value of $126,000. Compare rental costs here ($803/month) to neighboring Brooke County ($603/month) before deciding where to plant roots.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Barbour County

via IncomeByCounty

Barbour trails the nation on income

Barbour County's median household income of $48,347 falls 35% below the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it among the lower-income counties nationally. This gap reflects broader economic challenges facing rural Appalachia as manufacturing and resource-based jobs have declined over the past two decades.

Below average for West Virginia

At $48,347, Barbour's median household income ranks below the state average of $54,746, positioning it in the lower half of West Virginia's 55 counties. The county's per capita income of $26,055 also lags the state average of $30,335, indicating fewer earners per household.

Similar struggles in nearby counties

Barbour's income profile mirrors struggling neighbors Braxton County ($44,449) and Clay County ($42,790), but outpaces Calhoun County ($41,421). Only Berkeley County ($77,329) in the region breaks significantly above state and national averages, showing stark contrasts within West Virginia.

Rent remains manageable despite low wages

Barbour County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.9% means renters spend roughly one-fifth of household income on rent—slightly above the sustainable 15-20% threshold. With a median home value of $126,000, homeownership is more accessible here than statewide, though low median incomes still limit down payment capacity.

Build financial resilience in Barbour

With median household income below $50,000, Barbour residents should prioritize emergency savings and low-cost investing through employer retirement plans and IRAs. Even small, consistent contributions compound significantly over time—consider consulting a local financial advisor about first-time homebuyer programs that could build equity.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Barbour County

via CrimeByCounty

Safe Living in Barbour County

Barbour County maintains a strong safety score of 98.6 out of 100. Its total crime rate of 914.5 per 100,000 residents sits far below the national average of 2,385.5.

Beating the West Virginia Average

The county performs well against state benchmarks, remaining just under the West Virginia average total crime rate of 949.0. Six local reporting agencies contribute to these comprehensive safety figures.

Consistent Safety Across the Region

Barbour's total crime rate is slightly higher than neighboring Boone or Clay, but it remains significantly safer than more urban hubs. Its property crime rate of 476.6 is notably lower than state norms.

Balanced Crime Profile

Data shows 437.9 violent crimes and 476.6 property crimes per 100,000 people. This suggests that while property crime is slightly more common, the two categories are more balanced here than in most other counties.

Simple Steps for Better Security

Even in safe areas, home security cameras and motion lights provide peace of mind. Local law enforcement encourages residents to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Barbour County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy lags behind national average

Barbour County residents live to an average of 72.0 years, about 6 years below the U.S. average of 78.0 years. Nearly one in four residents (25.6%) report poor or fair health, indicating significant chronic disease burden in the community.

Tracking slightly below West Virginia average

Barbour's 72.0-year life expectancy falls just short of West Virginia's 72.2-year state average, placing it in the middle tier of the state's 55 counties. The county's uninsured rate of 7.6% matches the state average exactly, suggesting comparable insurance coverage access.

Similar health outcomes to neighboring counties

Barbour's life expectancy and health metrics closely resemble those of Braxton County (73.5 years) and Calhoun County (71.5 years), reflecting similar socioeconomic conditions across central West Virginia. The county has 32 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—modestly below Berkeley County's 42 but on par with Boone County's 33.

Adequate mental health services, limited primary care

Barbour offers 124 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, better than most rural West Virginia counties, but only 32 primary care providers per 100,000. With 7.6% of residents uninsured, many residents depend on Medicaid and community health centers for routine care.

Check your coverage options today

If you're among Barbour's uninsured residents, visit healthcare.gov or contact the West Virginia Medicaid office to explore coverage options. Open enrollment periods and income-based assistance programs may help you find affordable health insurance.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Barbour County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Concentrated Network of Local Schools

Barbour County operates 7 public schools, including 4 elementary schools and 2 middle schools. A single high school serves the entire enrollment of 2,157 students within the county's primary school district.

High Graduation Rates and Efficient Spending

The county achieves a 97.0% graduation rate, significantly exceeding the national average of 87.0%. While the per-pupil expenditure of $6,948 is below the state average of $7,773, the county maintains a school score of 57.1, outperforming the state's 56.7 benchmark.

Barbour County Board of Education Leads the Way

The Barbour County Board of Education manages all 7 schools and 2,157 students. There are currently no charter schools in the county, keeping all public education under the centralized district administration.

Rural Learning and Small Campus Sizes

With 5 rural schools and 2 in town settings, the county offers a close-knit environment with an average school size of 308 students. Philip Barbour High School is the largest campus with 629 students, while smaller elementary schools foster personal attention.

Invest in a Community with Academic Excellence

The exceptional graduation rate and small school sizes make Barbour County a prime choice for homebuyers focused on education. Explore local properties to benefit from a school system that delivers high performance with a personal touch.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Barbour County

via RiskByCounty

Barbour ranks safest in state

Barbour County's composite risk score of 24.01 places it well below the national average, earning a Very Low rating. This means residents face significantly lower exposure to major natural disasters compared to most American counties.

Among lowest-risk counties statewide

Barbour's score of 24.01 sits far below West Virginia's 49.21 average, ranking the county among the safest in the state. Only a handful of West Virginia counties share this low-risk profile.

Safest corner of northern WV

Barbour is considerably safer than neighboring Braxton County (36.16) and Brooke County (54.23), making it one of the most secure areas in the region. This advantage holds steady across most hazard types.

Flood and earthquake are top concerns

Barbour's flood risk score of 51.75 and earthquake risk of 24.52 represent the county's main vulnerabilities, though both remain modest by state standards. Tornado and wildfire risks are minimal, each scoring below 12.

Standard homeowners insurance sufficient

While Barbour's overall risk is low, securing comprehensive homeowners insurance remains essential to protect against flooding and other perils. Renters should also carry coverage, as most landlord policies don't protect personal belongings.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Barbour County

via WeatherByCounty

A cooler mountain climate

Barbour County maintains an average annual temperature of 50.9°F, which is notably cooler than the national median. This humid continental climate is characterized by significant precipitation, totaling 51.1 inches annually.

Cooler than the state average

The county stays nearly two degrees cooler than the West Virginia state average of 52.8°F. It is also wetter than the rest of the state, exceeding the average annual precipitation of 47.0 inches by over four inches.

Heavy snow compared to neighbors

Barbour's 51.9 inches of annual snowfall is significantly higher than the totals seen in central and western counties. Its high-elevation influence creates a more rugged winter profile than most of its neighbors.

Cold winters and mild summers

Winters are rigorous with a January average of 29.8°F and heavy snow. Conversely, summers are pleasant with only 4 days per year reaching 90°F and a July average of 71.0°F.

Prepare for the white stuff

Residents should invest in heavy-duty snow removal equipment and high-efficiency heating systems. Since extreme heat is rare, many homes can prioritize insulation over heavy-duty air conditioning.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Barbour County

via SoilByCounty

Barbour County’s Acidic Soil Profile

The county's soil features an average pH of 5.40, which is more acidic than the national median of 6.5. While more alkaline than the state average of 5.25, these levels typically require lime amendments for most garden crops. Specific taxonomic data for this region is currently unavailable.

A Silt-Dominant Soil Texture

Silt makes up 50.8% of the local soil profile, providing a smooth texture that holds moisture well. With 24.1% sand and 18.9% clay, the mix offers a balanced structure for root penetration and workability. This composition suggests a soil that retains nutrients better than sandy neighbors but requires careful management to avoid compaction.

High Water Capacity and Organic Richness

The soil contains 6.07% organic matter, nearly tripling the national average of 2.0%. An available water capacity of 0.156 in/in exceeds the state average of 0.142 in/in, indicating strong drought resilience. This combination provides a fertile foundation for high-yield local agriculture.

Managing Hydrology in Barbour

Current records do not specify a dominant drainage class or hydrologic group for the county. Gardeners should observe their specific plots for pooling after rain to determine drainage patterns. Proper site assessment remains essential before beginning any major building or farming projects.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 6b

Barbour County falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 6b, making it ideal for hardy perennials and cool-season vegetables. The silty, water-rich soil supports robust growth for blueberries and potatoes which tolerate acidic conditions. Grab your tools and start a garden to take advantage of this fertile landscape.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Barbour County

via LawnByCounty

Above-Average Growing Conditions in Barbour County

Barbour County earns a lawn difficulty score of 62.4, making it significantly easier to maintain turf here than the national median of 50.0. While it sits slightly below the West Virginia state average of 66.5, the local USDA Hardiness Zone 6b provides a stable environment for traditional cool-season grasses. Residents benefit from a temperate climate that supports steady growth with moderate effort.

Plentiful Rainfall and Low Heat Stress

Lawns in Barbour County receive 51.1 inches of annual precipitation, which is well above the ideal range of 30-50 inches. With only 4 extreme heat days per year compared to the state average of 17, your grass faces very little risk of summer dormancy. The 2833 growing degree days ensure a consistent, manageable mowing schedule throughout the season.

Acidic Soils Require Nutrient Balancing

The local soil pH of 5.40 is quite acidic and sits below the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for most turfgrasses. With a composition of 18.9% clay and 24.1% sand, your soil offers a decent balance of structure and drainage. You should plan on regular lime applications to neutralize acidity and unlock essential nutrients for your lawn.

Managing Moderate Drought Vulnerability

Barbour County experienced 14 weeks in drought over the past year, though the area is currently clear of abnormally dry conditions. Because of the high annual rainfall, local lawns generally recover quickly from dry spells without heavy irrigation. Monitoring soil moisture during the summer months ensures your turf remains resilient during these brief dry periods.

Prime Planting After the May Frost

For the best results in Zone 6b, focus on cool-season varieties like Kentucky Bluegrass or Perennial Ryegrass. You should aim to seed or sod after the final spring frost on May 6 or during the early fall. These grasses thrive in your local climate and will establish deep roots before the first frost hits on October 13.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Barbour County's county score?
Barbour County, West Virginia has a composite county score of 62.8 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Barbour County rank among counties in West Virginia?
Barbour County ranks #28 among all counties in West Virginia on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Barbour County, West Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Barbour County is $538, with an effective tax rate of 0.43%. This earns Barbour County a tax score of 92.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Barbour County?
The median household income in Barbour County, West Virginia is $48,347 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Barbour County earns an income score of 11.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Barbour County, West Virginia a good place to live?
Barbour County scores 62.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #28 in West Virginia. The best way to evaluate Barbour County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Barbour County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.