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Gilmer County, West Virginia — County Report Card

WV

#3 in West Virginia

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
73.7
County Score
Disaster Risk 88.6Cost of Living 86Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Gilmer County, West Virginia

Gilmer County's Exceptional National Standing

Gilmer County boasts a composite score of 73.7, placing it far above the national median of 50.0. This high ranking indicates an overall quality of life that rivals some of the best rural areas in the country.

A Top-Tier West Virginia Destination

At 73.7, the county's score easily surpasses the state average of 62.0. It ranks as a premier location for West Virginians looking for stability and safety.

Safety, Risk, and Water Quality

The county excels across multiple dimensions, including environmental risk (88.6), safety (83.1), and water quality (86.0). Housing is also exceptionally affordable with a cost score of 86.0 and median values under $84,000.

Low Local Earnings Potential

The primary drawback is the income score of 16.7, reflecting a median household income of $50,991. While living costs are low, the local job market offers fewer high-paying opportunities than urban centers.

Perfect for Remote Workers and Retirees

Gilmer County is an ideal match for remote professionals or retirees who can bring their income with them. It provides a rare combination of extreme affordability, high safety, and clean water.

Score breakdown

Tax85.1Cost86Safety83.1Health39.5Schools82.4Income16.7Risk88.6Water86Weather62.9
🏛85.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠86
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼16.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡83.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤39.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓82.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡88.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤62.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨61.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱72.5
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

Gilmer County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Gilmer County

via TaxByCounty

Gilmer's tax rate slightly below national median

Gilmer County's effective tax rate of 0.507% sits just below the national median of 0.66%, offering modest tax relief compared to most U.S. counties. The median annual property tax of $422 on a $83,300 home represents just 16% of the national median tax of $2,690. This county ranks in approximately the 35th percentile nationally—nearly two-thirds of American counties impose heavier tax burdens.

In line with West Virginia average

Gilmer County's 0.507% effective rate sits just slightly above West Virginia's state average of 0.497%, placing it among the middle range statewide. The median property tax of $422 falls below the state median of $699, reflecting both the lower home values and similar rate structure. Gilmer represents a typical West Virginia property tax experience for residents.

More affordable than Fayette, Hancock, Doddridge

Gilmer's 0.507% rate beats Fayette's 0.662% and Hancock's 0.629%, offering meaningful savings for property owners. Grant County and Hardy County both edge lower at 0.331% and 0.367% respectively, while Greenbrier and Doddridge match Gilmer's competitive positioning. Among the regional cluster, Gilmer lands in the lower-middle tier for tax burden.

Median annual property tax: $422

A homeowner with an $83,300 property in Gilmer County pays approximately $422 annually in property taxes. Those with mortgages pay slightly less at $293, while owners without mortgages pay $462, reflecting the way mortgage servicing affects tax bills. This represents one of the lowest absolute tax burdens in the eight-county region.

Even modest savings add up over time

Although Gilmer County's tax bills are relatively low, homeowners with overassessed properties can still recover meaningful dollars through appeals. Reducing a $422 bill by just 10% via a successful assessment challenge saves $42 annually, or $1,260 over 30 years. If your home was recently assessed, verifying the accuracy costs nothing and could confirm your tax burden is fair.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Gilmer County

via CostByCounty

Gilmer faces the nation's rent squeeze

At 18.0%, Gilmer County's rent-to-income ratio ranks among the worst in America, driven by a median household income of just $50,991 paired with $764 monthly rents. This combination leaves residents dedicating nearly one-fifth of earnings to housing—a burden well above national and state norms.

Least affordable county in West Virginia

Gilmer's 18.0% rent-to-income ratio tops all peer counties in this analysis, indicating severe affordability stress. Only Greenbrier and Hardy counties approach this level, but Gilmer's combination of low income and moderate rents creates the steepest burden statewide.

Lowest incomes, highest rent burden

Gilmer's $50,991 median household income is the lowest in the region, while $764 monthly rent is unremarkable—but together they create the steepest housing-to-income ratio. The median home value of $83,300 is also the cheapest, offering entry-level purchase prices but limited wealth-building.

One-fifth of income lost to rent

Renters spend $764 monthly while homeowners pay just $340, yet the rent burden still consumes 18.0% of household income. Even homeownership remains tight, as the median income of $50,991 leaves limited flexibility for other expenses.

Lowest prices hide income challenges

Gilmer's bargain housing comes attached to West Virginia's lowest median incomes, making it risky for job seekers. If stable, higher-wage employment exists in your industry here, the affordability is genuine; otherwise, compare neighboring counties' job markets before committing.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Gilmer County

via IncomeByCounty

Gilmer households earn significantly below national median

Gilmer County's median household income of $50,991 falls short of the national median ($74,755) by $23,764, or 32%. This substantial gap underscores Gilmer's position among the nation's lower-income counties.

Among West Virginia's lowest-earning counties

Gilmer County ranks near the bottom of West Virginia's income distribution at $50,991, trailing the state average of $54,746 by $3,755. Only a handful of state counties report lower median household incomes.

Lowest earnings in its regional cluster

Gilmer's $50,991 median household income is the second-lowest among its neighbors, surpassed only by Hardy County ($49,302). All other nearby counties—Doddridge, Grant, Hampshire, and Hancock—report significantly higher household earnings.

Housing costs consume large budget share

Gilmer's 18.0% rent-to-income ratio approaches affordability limits, and the per capita income of just $20,325 suggests income inequality within the county. Median home values of $83,300 are the lowest in the region, reflecting limited wealth accumulation.

Invest in skills and long-term planning

Gilmer residents earning $50,991 face real challenges in building wealth, but education, workforce training, and careful budgeting create pathways forward. Even small monthly savings and employer benefits can compound over decades into meaningful financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Gilmer County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional Safety Levels in Gilmer County

Gilmer County is remarkably safe, with a total crime rate of only 403.0 per 100K residents. This is nearly six times lower than the national average of 2,385.5. Consequently, the county boasts an elite safety score of 99.4 out of 100.

Leading the State in Public Safety

Gilmer's safety score of 99.4 easily surpasses the West Virginia state average of 98.5. With a total crime rate of 403.0, it performs far better than the state average of 949.0 per 100K. Six reporting agencies coordinate to maintain this peaceful environment.

A Safety Leader Among Neighbors

Gilmer County significantly outperforms Doddridge County, which has a crime rate of 943.1 per 100K. It is also much safer than Fayette County’s rate of 1,322.0. This makes Gilmer one of the most secure counties in the central West Virginia region.

Minimal Violent Crime Reported

Violent crime in Gilmer is extremely rare, occurring at a rate of 94.0 per 100K, compared to the national 369.8. Property crime is also low at 309.0 per 100K. These figures reflect a community where serious crime is the exception rather than the rule.

Keep Gilmer County Secure

While crime is low, maintaining safety requires consistent community vigilance. Ensure your home is well-lit at night to deter any opportunistic property crimes. Even with a low 309.0 property crime rate, basic precautions go a long way.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Gilmer County

via HealthByCounty

Gilmer outperforms the nation

Gilmer County residents live to 75.2 years on average, nearly matching the U.S. average of 76.1 years despite West Virginia's lower regional profile. Just 24.3% report poor or fair health, putting Gilmer among healthier rural counties nationally.

Among West Virginia's healthiest

At 75.2 years, Gilmer's life expectancy exceeds the state average of 72.2 years by 3 years, ranking it among the stronger counties in West Virginia. This significant advantage reflects better chronic disease management and stronger community health outcomes statewide.

Steady health across the region

Gilmer's 75.2-year life expectancy sits solidly in the regional middle, outpacing Fayette (69.8 years) and Greenbrier (71.4 years) but trailing Doddridge (76.8 years). The 24.3% poor/fair health rate is comparable to nearby counties, suggesting consistent rural health patterns in the region.

Good access, lingering coverage gaps

Gilmer has 41 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and solid mental health provider capacity, supporting care access across the county. However, the 9.1% uninsured rate exceeds the state average of 7.6%, meaning nearly 1 in 11 residents lack health coverage and face financial vulnerability.

Close the coverage gap today

With above-average uninsured rates, finding affordable coverage is essential for Gilmer families to protect health and finances. Explore options at healthcare.gov, check if you qualify for Medicaid expansion, and contact local health departments for enrollment assistance.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Gilmer County

via SchoolsByCounty

Focused Two-School Educational System

Gilmer County features a highly concentrated infrastructure with just two public schools serving 792 total students. The system is split simply between one elementary school and one high school. This structure creates a clear, unified path for every student in the county.

High Success in a Rural Hub

The county achieves a strong 95.0% graduation rate, exceeding both the West Virginia average of 92.8% and the national average of 87.0%. Per-pupil spending sits at $8,964, which is higher than the state average of $7,773. These factors contribute to a solid school score of 60.4, placing it above the state average.

Small-Scale Success at Gilmer County Schools

Gilmer County Schools operates as a single district for all 792 residents. There are no charter schools in the area, ensuring all local resources remain focused on the two primary campuses. This small district size allows for a high degree of community familiarity.

A Consistent Small-Town School Feel

Both public schools are located in town locales, providing a central hub for the county's youth. The average school size is 396 students, with Gilmer County High serving 449 students and the elementary school serving 343. Attending school here feels personal, as students often stay with the same peer group for their entire academic career.

Discover a Home in a Tight-Knit District

For families who value a small-town atmosphere with high graduation rates, Gilmer County is an excellent choice. The concentrated school system makes it easy to choose a home location with short commutes to class. Explore the local market to find your place in this high-performing community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Gilmer County

via RiskByCounty

Gilmer County among America's safest

Gilmer County's composite risk score of 11.45 and Very Low rating place it among the safest counties in the entire United States. This exceptional resilience reflects minimal exposure to most major natural disaster types.

West Virginia's lowest-risk county

Gilmer County's score of 11.45 ranks it as the safest county in West Virginia, well below the state average of 49.21. The county's protected status reflects its geography and relatively small exposure to major hazards.

Significantly safer than surrounding areas

Gilmer's score of 11.45 dramatically outperforms neighboring Doddridge County (14.44), Grant County (33.17), and Hancock County (40.68). The county benefits from terrain and climate patterns that minimize wildfire, tornado, and seismic activity.

Flood and hurricane risks are modest

Gilmer's primary natural disaster exposures are flooding (39.22) and hurricane impact (41.80), both moderate rather than severe. Wildfire risk is nearly negligible at 1.34, and tornado danger is minimal at 4.64.

Basic flood precautions offer strong protection

Even in exceptionally safe Gilmer County, flood coverage protects against the primary local hazard with a risk score of 39.22. Homeowners in flood-prone areas should maintain NFIP or private flood insurance as a cost-effective safeguard.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Gilmer County

via WeatherByCounty

Gilmer County matches the temperate national median

Gilmer County maintains an average annual temperature of 52.5°F, falling just below the national median. This temperate climate represents the classic Mid-Atlantic experience with four distinct but moderate seasons.

Following the West Virginia baseline closely

The county's 52.5°F average sits nearly level with the West Virginia state average of 52.8°F. While temperatures are standard for the state, Gilmer receives 48.5 inches of annual precipitation, slightly outpacing the state average of 47.0 inches.

A wetter alternative to neighboring regions

While Gilmer shares a similar thermal profile with neighbors like Harrison County, it receives about 2 more inches of rain annually. It remains significantly warmer and drier than the high-elevation counties to its east.

Predictable summers and snowy winters

Summer highs peak in July at 72.9°F with only 13 days reaching above 90°F annually. Residents see 25.1 inches of snow each winter as temperatures drop to a January average of 30.8°F.

Prepare for humidity and moderate snowfall

Homeowners should prioritize dehumidification systems to manage the 48.5 inches of annual rainfall. Standard snow tires and a reliable shovel handle the 25 inches of winter accumulation effectively.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Gilmer County

via SoilByCounty

Above Average Soil Health

Gilmer County features an average pH of 5.99, which is significantly higher than the West Virginia state average of 5.25. This moderately acidic profile makes it easier for plants to access essential nutrients compared to neighboring counties. The county earns an overall soil score of 61.8, placing it well above the state benchmark of 49.2.

A Silty Foundation

The soil composition is primarily silt (48.2%), balanced by 26.0% sand and 19.9% clay. This mix provides a good middle ground for workability, as the silt prevents the soil from becoming as hard as pure clay when dry. It offers enough sand to prevent total compaction while retaining the structural benefits of silt.

Superior Water Retention

With 6.11% organic matter, the soil is far richer than the national average of 2.0%, though it lags behind the state's high mark of 21.03%. However, its available water capacity of 0.162 in/in exceeds the state average of 0.142. This means the soil is exceptionally good at holding onto moisture for crops during dry spells.

Stable Moisture Management

While the specific drainage class is not listed, the high silt and clay content suggests the soil retains moisture effectively. The water capacity of 0.162 in/in implies that the soil acts as a sponge, slowing down runoff and reducing the need for constant irrigation. This stability is an asset for both small farms and rural construction projects.

Gardening Success in Zone 6b

Gilmer County's position in Zone 6b allows for a productive season of tomatoes, peppers, and orchard fruits. The higher-than-average soil score suggests that this land is more forgiving than many other parts of the state. It is an excellent place to start a homestead or an ambitious community garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Gilmer County

via LawnByCounty

Strong growing potential in Gilmer County

Gilmer County features a lawn difficulty score of 72.5, which is notably easier than the state average of 66.5. This Zone 6b region offers a hospitable environment that ranks well above the national median for lawn success. Maintaining a green space here is a straightforward task for most homeowners.

Generous rain and manageable heat

The county receives 48.5 inches of rain annually, ensuring consistent hydration for your turf throughout the 3,210 growing degree days. Extreme heat is limited to just 13 days per year, which is lower than the West Virginia average of 17 days. These factors create a long, productive growing season with minimal risk of heat-induced browning.

Ideal acidity with moderate clay

The soil pH in Gilmer County is 5.99, sitting right at the threshold of the 6.0-7.0 ideal range for healthy grass. With 19.9% clay and 26.0% sand, the soil texture provides good stability and moisture retention. While specific drainage classes aren't recorded, these proportions suggest a soil that responds well to regular aeration.

Excellent current moisture levels

Current drought conditions are at 0.0%, reflecting the 48.5 inches of annual rain that keeps the ground hydrated. Gilmer County only saw 12 weeks of drought in the past year, indicating a reliable water supply for local landscapes. To maintain this resilience, keep your grass taller during the summer to shade the soil and reduce evaporation.

Planning your Gilmer County lawn

Wait until after the last spring frost on April 29 to begin new seeding or sodding projects. You have until the first fall frost on October 24 to establish roots, giving you a generous window for cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass. With a score of 72.5, your efforts are likely to result in a healthy, durable lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gilmer County's county score?
Gilmer County, West Virginia has a composite county score of 73.7 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 Gilmer County rank among counties in West Virginia?
Gilmer County ranks #3 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 Gilmer County, West Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Gilmer County is $422, with an effective tax rate of 0.51%. This earns Gilmer County a tax score of 85.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Gilmer County?
The median household income in Gilmer County, West Virginia is $50,991 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Gilmer County earns an income score of 16.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Gilmer County, West Virginia a good place to live?
Gilmer County scores 73.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #3 in West Virginia. The best way to evaluate Gilmer 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 Gilmer 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.