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Cabell County, West Virginia — County Report Card

WV

#54 in West Virginia

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
41.6
County Score
Water Quality 86Property Tax 70.5Weather & Climate 66.4

County Report Card

About Cabell County, West Virginia

Struggling to Meet National Medians

Cabell County holds a composite score of 41.6, which falls below the national median of 50.0. This suggests that the county faces more significant hurdles in quality of life compared to the average American county. While it has specific strengths, overall metrics indicate a need for improvement.

Trailing the West Virginia Average

With a score of 41.6, Cabell County lags behind the state average of 62.0. The county’s ranking is impacted heavily by safety and environmental risk scores that are lower than many of its state neighbors. However, it maintains a strong position in infrastructure and utility quality.

Excellent Water Quality and Moderate Taxes

Cabell County's standout feature is its water score of 86.0, indicating superior utility infrastructure. It also maintains a respectable tax score of 70.5 with an effective tax rate of 0.634%. These factors provide a reliable foundation for residents and local businesses.

Critical Safety and Risk Concerns

The county faces serious challenges with a safety score of 7.3 and a risk score of 14.6. Health outcomes are also low at 27.5, reflecting broader regional wellness issues. These scores indicate that personal security and environmental resilience are major areas for local policy focus.

Best for Urban-Minded Utility Seekers

Cabell County may suit those who value reliable infrastructure and a more urbanized environment over rural isolation. It is a fit for residents who are comfortable navigating a complex safety landscape in exchange for the amenities of a larger population center. The high water quality is a significant asset for families and industries alike.

Score breakdown

Tax70.5Cost53.4Safety7.3Health27.5Schools56.9Income20.4Risk14.6Water86Weather66.4
🏛70.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠53.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼20.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡7.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤27.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓56.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡14.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤66.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨61
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱62.8
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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Nearby counties

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Deep Dives

Cabell County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Cabell County

via TaxByCounty

Cabell's rate trails the national median

Cabell County's 0.634% effective tax rate falls below the national median of 0.81%, positioning it in the lower-middle range nationally. The median tax of $989 remains well under the national median of $2,690.

Cabell ranks among West Virginia's highest

At 0.634%, Cabell County has one of the state's steepest effective tax rates, exceeding the state average of 0.497% by nearly 28%. The median tax of $989 is 41% above the state average of $699.

Cabell vs. regional peer counties

Cabell's 0.634% rate ranks among the highest in the regional comparison, exceeded only by Boone (0.650%). This makes Cabell a more expensive option for property owners compared to most neighboring counties.

Your annual property tax in Cabell

On the median home value of $156,100, you'll pay approximately $989 per year—or about $82 monthly. Homeowners with mortgages pay $1,160 due to escrow requirements.

Could you be overassessed?

In higher-tax counties like Cabell, assessment errors can cost hundreds of dollars annually. Filing an appeal to verify your property's valuation is a straightforward step that often yields significant savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Cabell County

via CostByCounty

Cabell's rents strain above national threshold

Cabell County's 19.9% rent-to-income ratio far exceeds the national affordability benchmark of 15%, making housing a significant budget burden here. Despite median household income of $52,828, residents spend nearly one-fifth of earnings on rent—a sign of housing-cost stress.

Cabell ties Barbour for worst affordability

At 19.9%, Cabell County shares West Virginia's highest rent-to-income burden with Barbour County, both well above the statewide average of 16.9%. Cabell's median rent of $877 reflects its position as the state's largest metropolitan area, where housing demand drives up costs.

Cabell's metro costs outpace rural peers

Cabell's $877 median rent significantly exceeds smaller rural counties like Boone ($823), Braxton ($578), and Clay ($589). The 19.9% rent burden places Cabell alongside Barbour—both must be approached cautiously by renters with modest incomes.

Cabell's rental crisis versus ownership advantage

Cabell households earn a median $52,828 and face a steep $877 monthly rent (19.9% of income) but more manageable $753 mortgages (17.1%). Homeownership remains more affordable than renting here, though both require substantial housing budgets compared to rural counties.

Huntington's affordability trade-offs

Cabell County (home to Huntington) offers urban amenities but at a rental cost—median rent hits $877 monthly with a 19.9% burden. Consider whether metro benefits outweigh housing costs; compare Cabell to rural alternatives before relocating to West Virginia's largest city.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Cabell County

via IncomeByCounty

Cabell trails U.S. income benchmarks

Cabell County's median household income of $52,828 falls 29% below the U.S. median of $74,755, reflecting economic challenges in the Huntington metro area despite being West Virginia's second-largest city. The county's per capita income of $32,399 suggests some higher earners support the overall average.

Below state average, significant county

Cabell County's $52,828 median household income ranks below the state average of $54,746 despite being home to Huntington, the state's largest metro area and economic hub. Its per capita income of $32,399 exceeds the state average of $30,335, indicating concentrations of professional and service workers.

Urban center amid rural struggles

Cabell's $52,828 median household income outpaces most rural neighbors—Braxton ($44,449), Clay ($42,790), and Calhoun ($41,421)—but lags Boone ($56,152) and falls far behind Berkeley ($77,329). As the region's urban center, Cabell should rank higher, signaling Huntington's broader economic challenges.

Housing costs squeeze household budgets

Cabell County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.9% sits at the upper limit of affordability, meaning urban renters dedicate a fifth of income to housing. The median home value of $156,100 reflects urban location but creates down-payment barriers for lower-income households earning near the median.

Navigate Huntington's urban opportunities

Cabell residents should prioritize reducing housing cost burden to free capital for investing—consider first-time homebuyer programs or shared housing arrangements. With professional opportunities in Huntington's healthcare, education, and government sectors, seek employers offering 401(k) matches and financial wellness programs.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Cabell County

via CrimeByCounty

Urban Challenges in Cabell

Cabell County faces more challenges, with a total crime rate of 3,068.1 per 100,000, which is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. Its safety score sits at 95.2.

High Activity Compared to State

The crime rate in Cabell is over three times higher than the West Virginia average of 949.0. Nine reporting agencies work across the county to manage these higher activity levels.

A Denser Regional Hub

While neighboring counties like Boone and Clay report rates under 800, Cabell's activity reflects its more urban nature. Property crime is particularly elevated here compared to the rest of the state.

Property Theft the Primary Factor

Property crimes are the main driver at 2,587.1 per 100,000 residents, exceeding the national average of 2,015.7. Violent crime also sits above the state average at 481.0.

Strategic Protection for Urban Homes

Residents should prioritize high-quality locks, security cameras, and parcel lockers to deter property theft. Staying active in neighborhood watch programs is also highly recommended in this area.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Cabell County

via HealthByCounty

Low life expectancy despite urban resources

Cabell County's 69.5-year life expectancy trails both West Virginia (72.2 years) by 2.7 years and the U.S. average (78.0 years) by 8.5 years. With 25.1% reporting poor or fair health, the county faces significant health disparities despite being home to Marshall University and major hospitals.

Urban county ranks below state average

Cabell County's 69.5-year life expectancy places it in the lower half of West Virginia's 55 counties, an unexpected result given its urban Huntington population and healthcare infrastructure. The 7.8% uninsured rate slightly exceeds the state average of 7.6%.

Opioid crisis shadow over otherwise resourced area

Cabell's 69.5-year life expectancy falls between Boone (68.9) and Calhoun (71.5), suggesting shared regional challenges despite Cabell's significantly larger provider base. The county's health outcomes trail less-resourced neighbors like Braxton (73.5) and Berkeley (73.3).

Unmatched provider capacity, persistent health crises

Cabell County leads these eight counties with 168 primary care and 386 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—reflecting Huntington's urban medical presence and Marshall University resources. Yet opioid overdoses and substance use disorders continue driving down life expectancy despite abundant care options.

Use Cabell's resources to get covered

Cabell's healthcare infrastructure makes it easier to find coverage and care than most West Virginia counties. Visit Marshall University's health clinics or Huntington area federally qualified health centers to explore affordable insurance and treatment options.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Cabell County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse and Large-Scale District

Cabell County supports 26 public schools, including 18 elementary schools and 4 middle schools. The system educates 11,473 students, supported by specialized campuses and multiple high schools.

High Investment and Competitive Outcomes

The county spends $7,966 per pupil, which is significantly higher than the state average of $7,773. This investment supports a 90.0% graduation rate, which remains higher than the national average of 87.0%.

Cabell County Schools Lead the Region

Cabell County Schools is the single large district managing all 26 campuses and 11,473 students. The district operates without charter schools but includes an alternative school and multiple large-scale secondary campuses.

From City Centers to Rural Hills

Cabell offers a diverse locale mix with 11 city schools, 11 suburban schools, and 4 rural campuses. Cabell Midland High School is the largest with 1,757 students, followed closely by Huntington High School's 1,704 students.

Diverse Housing Near Large-Scale Schools

Whether you prefer city living in Huntington or suburban life in Barboursville, Cabell County provides high-quality school options. The district's higher per-pupil spending makes it an attractive choice for those valuing educational investment.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Cabell County

via RiskByCounty

Cabell faces highest state-level risks

Cabell County's composite risk score of 85.37 earns a Relatively Moderate rating, making it one of West Virginia's highest-risk counties. The score significantly exceeds the national average across multiple hazard categories.

Highest composite risk in state

Cabell's score of 85.37 towers above West Virginia's 49.21 average, marking it as the state's most vulnerable county overall. This elevated profile reflects exceptional exposure to multiple natural hazards.

Clear hazard leader in region

Cabell significantly outranks neighboring Boone County (69.37) and Berkeley County (68.26) in overall composite risk. The county's concentration of hazards makes it substantially more vulnerable than surrounding areas.

Flood, wildfire, earthquake converge

Cabell faces severe flood risk (91.92), major wildfire exposure (69.24), and elevated earthquake risk (71.79), making it vulnerable to multiple simultaneous hazards. Tornado risk of 55.09 adds another significant layer of concern.

Comprehensive protection absolutely essential

Cabell residents must invest in flood insurance, earthquake coverage, and ensure homeowners policies cover wildfire damage—standard coverage is insufficient. Consultation with an insurance agent about multi-hazard protection is critical for property security.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Cabell County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm river valley climate

Cabell County is one of the warmest spots in the region with an annual average of 57.3°F. This temperature is well above the national median, reflecting its low-lying position along the Ohio River.

Significantly warmer than neighbors

Cabell is nearly five degrees warmer than the West Virginia state average of 52.8°F. While its temperature is high, its 46.6 inches of precipitation is very close to the 47.0-inch state average.

The state's heat leader

Unlike the snowy eastern mountains, Cabell sees only 9.6 inches of snow per year. It experiences 31 days of extreme heat, which is significantly more than the cooler plateau regions of the state.

Intense summers and mild winters

Summers are intense with a July average of 77.8°F and frequent high humidity. Winters are the mildest in the state, with a January average of 35.5°F and minimal snow accumulation.

Prioritize air conditioning

Residents should focus on efficient cooling systems to manage over a month of 90-degree days. Winter gear requirements are lighter here, as the county averages less than 10 inches of snow annually.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Cabell County

via SoilByCounty

Cabell’s Highly Ranked Ultisols

Cabell County earns a strong soil score of 61.0, supported by its dominant Ultisols—weathered soils common in the humid Southeast. The average pH is 5.61, which is more acidic than the national 6.5 median but higher than the state's 5.25. These soils are historically significant for their long-term agricultural use.

A Texture of Organic Material

The dominant texture is classified as slightly decomposed plant material, highlighting a unique organic surface layer. The mineral component consists of 45.9% silt and 23.4% sand, providing excellent structure. With 16.4% clay, the soil offers a balanced mix that facilitates easy root growth.

Fertile Ground for Agriculture

The soil contains 12.48% organic matter, significantly beating the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.167 in/in also exceeds the state average of 0.142 in/in. This makes Cabell's soil exceptionally good at supporting crops through the humid summer months.

Well-Drained and High Infiltration

The soil is classified as well-drained and belongs to hydrologic group A, which indicates high infiltration rates. These characteristics mean water moves quickly through the soil, reducing the risk of root rot and flooding. This makes the land ideal for both farming and residential development.

Thriving in Zone 7a

Located in Hardiness Zone 7a, Cabell County is perfect for heat-loving crops like peppers and melons. The well-drained, organic-rich soil provides an elite environment for gardening and landscaping alike. Now is the perfect time to plant your roots in this high-quality West Virginia soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Cabell County

via LawnByCounty

Warm-Season Opportunities in Cabell County

With a lawn score of 62.8, Cabell County offers a solid environment for turf that is much easier than the national average. The Zone 7a hardiness rating means your lawn enjoys milder winters but must endure more summer heat than other parts of the state. This balance requires a strategic choice in grass species.

High Heat and Rapid Growth Cycles

Cabell County sees 31 extreme heat days and a high 4267 growing degree days, indicating a very active and warm growing season. The 46.6 inches of rain perfectly matches the state average, providing the necessary moisture to fuel this fast growth. You can expect to mow early and often to keep up with the vigorous pace.

Well-Drained Soil with Organic Matter

The soil here is classified as well-drained with a pH of 5.61, which is just below the ideal range for turf. It contains a mix of 16.4% clay and 23.4% sand, often topped with decomposed plant material. This organic layer is a great foundation for healthy roots, though lime is still recommended to adjust the acidity.

Consistent Moisture and Low Drought Stress

Last year, the county only experienced 7 weeks of drought, one of the lowest totals in the region. Currently, there are no dry conditions reported, making this an excellent year for lawn establishment. The well-drained soil prevents waterlogging, but the high heat days mean you should monitor for signs of wilting in July.

Extended Growing Season Starts Early

Your lawn can get moving after the last spring frost on April 8, much earlier than the state's mountain counties. Tall Fescue or even Zoysia grass are great picks for the 31 annual heat days found here. You have a long runway for growth until the first fall frost arrives around November 1.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cabell County's county score?
Cabell County, West Virginia has a composite county score of 41.6 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 Cabell County rank among counties in West Virginia?
Cabell County ranks #54 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 Cabell County, West Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Cabell County is $989, with an effective tax rate of 0.63%. This earns Cabell County a tax score of 70.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Cabell County?
The median household income in Cabell County, West Virginia is $52,828 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Cabell County earns an income score of 20.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Cabell County, West Virginia a good place to live?
Cabell County scores 41.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #54 in West Virginia. The best way to evaluate Cabell 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 Cabell 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.