countyscore

Monongalia County, West Virginia — County Report Card

WV

#50 in West Virginia

Explore on ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
51.4
County Score
Property Tax 87.4Lawn Care 78.5Health 65.6

County Report Card

About Monongalia County, West Virginia

Aligning with National Median Averages

Monongalia County scores 51.4, which is just slightly above the national median of 50.0. This indicates a quality of life that is roughly on par with the typical American experience.

Below the West Virginia State Average

The county trails the West Virginia state average of 62.0. Higher housing costs and safety concerns pull its overall ranking down relative to other counties in the state.

Superior Health Services and Low Taxes

High-quality healthcare and a low tax burden are the primary draws, with scores of 65.6 and 87.4 respectively. The county also maintains a respectable Income Score of 47.2.

High Housing Costs and Safety Risks

Cost of living is a major hurdle, with a Cost Score of 34.2 and a median home value of $254,200. Safety and environmental risk scores also fall below 30.

Best for Healthcare and Academic Professionals

This county is tailored for professionals who value proximity to medical facilities and stable incomes. It is the top choice for those willing to trade higher costs for better services.

Score breakdown

Tax87.4Cost34.2Safety24.9Health65.6Schools64Income47.2Risk28.5Water57.5Weather60.6
🏛87.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠34.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼47.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡24.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤65.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓64
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡28.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧57.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤60.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱78.5
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 →
Sponsored

Compare mortgage rates in Monongalia County

Whether buying or refinancing in Monongalia County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

See Today's Rates

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Monongalia County with Fulton County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Fulton County
Arkansas
Median income: $38,941
51.4
Holmes County
Florida
Median income: $48,236
51.4
Richland County
Illinois
Median income: $60,404
51.4
Warrick County
Indiana
Median income: $95,027
51.4
Mahaska County
Iowa
Median income: $69,019
51.4
Washington County
Missouri
Median income: $51,886
51.4
Gage County
Nebraska
Median income: $64,426
51.4
Somerset County
New Jersey
Median income: $135,960
51.4

Nearby counties

Marion County
West Virginia
54.4
Greene County
Pennsylvania
55.9
Taylor County
West Virginia
67.8
Preston County
West Virginia
63.8
Wetzel County
West Virginia
66.6
Harrison County
West Virginia
56.3
Fayette County
Pennsylvania
45.7
Barbour County
West Virginia
62.8

Deep Dives

Monongalia County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Monongalia County

via TaxByCounty

Monongalia County taxes rank among lowest nationwide

Monongalia County's effective rate of 0.485% places it in the lowest 10% nationally, with median taxes of $1,232 representing less than half the national median of $2,690. The county delivers substantial property tax advantages despite having West Virginia's highest median home values.

Slightly below state average with highest values

Monongalia County's 0.485% rate runs slightly below West Virginia's state average of 0.497%, while the median home value of $254,200 stands as the highest in the eight-county sample. The resulting median tax of $1,232 significantly exceeds the state median of $699 due to higher property values.

Highest taxes regionally due to home values

Monongalia County's $1,232 median tax is the highest among the sample, despite having a moderate rate of 0.485%. The county's superior property valuations and larger median home price explain this distinction.

Median home tax: $1,232 annually

A typical Monongalia County home valued at $254,200 generates $1,232 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay around $1,348 when escrow is included.

Appeal if your assessment seems excessive

Monongalia County's higher-valued properties can sometimes be overassessed relative to market conditions. Contact your county assessor to request a reassessment and potential tax relief if your property appears overvalued.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Monongalia County

via CostByCounty

Monongalia County's rents run above average

Monongalia County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.1% edges above the national average of 16.9%, driven by the region's highest median rent of $943/month. Despite a respectable median income of $62,704, Monongalia renters face steeper housing costs than the typical American household.

Highest rents in West Virginia

Monongalia County's median rent of $943 is the highest in the state, and its 18.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the worst affordability conditions. The county's economic strength (driven by university presence and professional employment) drives both higher incomes and substantially higher rents.

Urban premium over rural peers

Monongalia County's $943/month rent exceeds Marshall County's $823 by $120 and Mineral County's $684 by $259, reflecting its status as West Virginia's most developed urban center. Yet even with higher income ($62,704), Monongalia renters face the state's toughest rent burden.

Both renting and buying cost premium

Renters allocate $943/month (18.1% of income) while homeowners spend $974/month (15.5%)—both substantially higher than any peer county. The median home value of $254,200 reflects Monongalia's position as West Virginia's most expensive housing market, driven by strong local economy and university demand.

Premium market for premium opportunities

Monongalia County commands the highest housing costs in West Virginia, reflecting its concentration of professional jobs, higher education, and urban amenities. Relocate here if career advancement justifies the cost premium—compare against more affordable rural counties if budget is your primary concern.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Monongalia County

via IncomeByCounty

Monongalia nears national income parity

Monongalia County's median household income of $62,704 approaches the U.S. median of $74,755, trailing by just $12,051 or 16%. Home to West Virginia University, the county demonstrates strong income generation powered by education and institutional employment.

Second-strongest West Virginia income

At $62,704, Monongalia County ranks among West Virginia's highest-income counties, exceeding the state average of $54,746 by $7,958. Only Mineral County performs better statewide, reflecting Monongalia's economic vitality.

Economic hub of the region

Monongalia County's $62,704 median income rivals Mineral County ($68,049) while exceeding Marshall County ($60,329), Monroe County ($54,508), and all southern neighbors. The county serves as the regional economic center, driven by university employment and professional services.

Strong housing affordability

Monongalia County's 18.1% rent-to-income ratio remains well below the 30% affordability threshold, though median home values of $254,200 reflect a vibrant housing market. Higher home prices are offset by robust incomes, making homeownership achievable for median-earning households.

Monongalia wealth-building advantage

Monongalia County households earning $62,704 have strong capacity to build wealth through retirement accounts, investments, and homeownership. Residents should direct 12-15% of income toward long-term investments while leveraging the county's strong employment market for career advancement.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Monongalia County

via CrimeByCounty

Safety Amid Higher Population Activity

Monongalia County reports a total crime rate of 1,863.5 per 100K, which is still lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This high-activity area maintains a respectable safety score of 97.1.

More Active Than the Average County

As one of the state's busier counties, Monongalia's crime rate is nearly double the state average of 949.0. Its safety score of 97.1 is slightly lower than the West Virginia average of 98.5.

Higher Incidents than Rural Neighbors

Monongalia sees more reported crime than nearby Mineral County, which sits at 1,250.1 per 100K. These higher numbers reflect the increased density and reporting associated with its regional centers.

Theft is the Primary Local Concern

Property crime dominates the statistics with 1,619.1 incidents per 100K, compared to 244.4 violent crimes. This suggests that residents should be particularly vigilant about securing their vehicles and personal belongings.

Smart Tech Deters Property Crimes

High-traffic areas benefit most from smart home technology like video doorbells. Ensuring your property is well-lit at night can significantly reduce the likelihood of becoming a target for theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Monongalia County

via HealthByCounty

Monongalia County leads West Virginia's health

At 77.6 years, Monongalia County's life expectancy actually exceeds the U.S. average of 76.4 years by 1.2 years—a remarkable achievement for any Appalachian county. Only 20.6% report poor or fair health, beating the national average of 17.9%, suggesting effective health systems and community health practices.

Healthiest county in West Virginia

Monongalia County's 77.6-year life expectancy towers 5.4 years above West Virginia's state average of 72.2 years, making it a standout leader in state health rankings. The 6.2% uninsured rate is near the state average, indicating that coverage access is well-managed across the community.

Far outpaces every regional peer

Monongalia County's 77.6-year life expectancy is 3.3 years higher than its nearest competitor, Marshall County (74.3 years), and nearly 12.5 years higher than Mingo and McDowell counties. The 6.2% uninsured rate is slightly above average regionally, but providers and infrastructure are so robust that access barriers are minimal.

Exceptional healthcare infrastructure across the board

Monongalia County boasts 134 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—more than triple the state average and the highest in this group—ensuring accessible frontline care. Mental health support is extraordinary at 390 providers per 100,000, reflecting major investments in behavioral health and enabling timely, specialized care.

Stay insured to maintain Monongalia's health gains

Monongalia County's 6.2% uninsured rate is excellent, but 1 in 16 residents still lack coverage. Visit healthcare.gov to confirm your plan is current or to find coverage that fits your needs and budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Monongalia County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Large and Diverse Educational Network

Monongalia County features 19 public schools, including ten elementary and four middle schools. The system is the largest in the region, with a total enrollment of 11,603 students.

Steady Performance in an Urban Hub

The county holds a 92.0% graduation rate and spends $7,888 per pupil, slightly above the state average. These investments support a school score of 56.5, placing it on par with state benchmarks.

A Choice Between Traditional and Charter Schools

Monongalia County Schools manages 18 schools and 11,297 students, while the West Virginia Academy serves 306 students as the county's sole charter school. Charter enrollment accounts for approximately 5.3% of the total school landscape.

Urban Centers and Large Campus Sizes

With eight schools in city locales and an average size of 645 students, this county feels much more urban than its neighbors. Morgantown High School is the county's largest, enrolling a massive 1,859 students.

Live Near West Virginia’s Academic Leaders

Monongalia County offers unparalleled school variety, from large city high schools to specialized charter options. Search for homes in Morgantown to give your family access to some of the state's largest and most diverse campuses.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Monongalia County

via RiskByCounty

Monongalia County faces significant national hazard exposure

Monongalia County's composite risk score of 71.53 is 45% above West Virginia's state average of 49.21 and well above the national average. The county ranks among the nation's more disaster-exposed counties, with elevated risk across multiple hazard categories.

Fourth-highest risk county in West Virginia

Monongalia County ranks in the top tier of West Virginia's most hazard-prone counties, with only McDowell (76.65) and Mingo (72.58) carrying notably higher overall risk. Its 71.53 score reflects substantial exposure to flooding, hurricanes, and tornados.

Riskier than Marshall and Mineral to the south

Monongalia County's score of 71.53 substantially exceeds Marshall County (56.81), Mason County (57.44), and Mineral County (52.83) in the region. The county faces notably higher overall disaster risk than most of its neighboring jurisdictions.

Flooding, hurricanes, and tornados are major threats

Monongalia County's flood risk of 84.99 is among the state's highest, while hurricane risk of 63.16 ranks third statewide. Tornado risk of 46.02 is substantially elevated compared to other West Virginia counties, creating a complex multi-hazard landscape.

Comprehensive coverage needed for Monongalia

Flood insurance is essential given the 84.99 flood risk, with particular attention to properties in floodplain or water-adjacent areas. Ensure homeowners insurance includes adequate hurricane and wind coverage given the county's elevated 63.16 hurricane and 46.02 tornado risk scores.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Monongalia County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate climate in Northern West Virginia

Monongalia County averages 52.6°F annually, which is cooler than the national median of 55°F. This creates a balanced four-season climate typical of the Appalachian plateau.

A statistical match for the state

The county's annual average of 52.6°F is nearly identical to the West Virginia state average of 52.8°F. Precipitation levels are also consistent with the state, coming in at 44.3 inches against the 47.0-inch average.

Consistent with regional patterns

Monongalia shares a nearly identical climate with Ohio County to the west, both averaging 52.6°F. It remains much more temperate than Mingo County, which is 5 degrees warmer on average.

Mild summers and moderate snow

The county enjoys manageable summers with only 16 days reaching above 90°F. Winter brings a steady 14.4 inches of snow and a January average of 30.6°F.

Versatile gear for all seasons

The moderate snowfall and limited extreme heat days make this a great area for outdoor activities most of the year. Residents should keep basic snow tools ready for the 14 inches of annual accumulation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Monongalia County

via SoilByCounty

Northern Region Soil Identity

Precise soil identity data for Monongalia County is not currently available in our records. Like much of northern West Virginia, local conditions likely trend toward the state average pH of 5.25 rather than the national 6.5 median.

Testing Local Soil Workability

We do not have recorded percentages for sand, silt, or clay in this area. Homeowners and farmers are encouraged to perform local tests to determine their specific soil texture and how well it handles moisture.

Building on a Strong Foundation

Current data does not specify the organic matter or water capacity for this county. Given the state’s high average of 21.03% organic matter, there is often a strong natural foundation for growth once local plots are verified.

Site Assessments for Success

No drainage or hydrologic group data is provided for this location. Proper site assessment is necessary to prevent waterlogging and ensure structural stability for any new agricultural or construction project.

Gardening Success in Zone 6b

Monongalia County falls into Hardiness Zone 6b, which is ideal for cool-weather crops and many hardy perennials. The local climate supports a vibrant gardening community despite the lack of aggregate soil data.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Monongalia County

via LawnByCounty

Reliable Results in Monongalia

Monongalia County scores a 78.5 for lawn difficulty, making it a very hospitable area for home landscapes compared to the state average of 66.5. Its placement in Hardiness Zone 6b supports a wide variety of popular cool-season grasses.

Steady Rain and Moderate Sun

The county receives 44.3 inches of rain annually, which is very close to the ideal range for grass health. With 16 extreme heat days—nearly identical to the state average—turf stress is generally manageable for the average homeowner.

Foundation for a Lush Lawn

While specific local soil samples are not provided, the regional climate supports a healthy soil biology. Focus on maintaining a neutral pH to ensure your grass can properly absorb the nutrients needed to reach its 3291 growing degree day potential.

Current Conditions are Optimal

The county experienced 13 weeks of drought last year, but current data shows 0% of the area is under drought stress. Following a consistent irrigation schedule during the summer months will keep the grass green and avoid dormant brown patches.

A Prime Window for Seeding

With the last frost occurring on April 25 and the first on October 24, there is a generous window for lawn care. Planting in early spring allows the grass to establish before the July heat peaks at a moderate 73.6°F.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Monongalia County's county score?
Monongalia County, West Virginia has a composite county score of 51.4 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 Monongalia County rank among counties in West Virginia?
Monongalia County ranks #50 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 Monongalia County, West Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Monongalia County is $1,232, with an effective tax rate of 0.48%. This earns Monongalia County a tax score of 87.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Monongalia County?
The median household income in Monongalia County, West Virginia is $62,704 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Monongalia County earns an income score of 47.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Monongalia County, West Virginia a good place to live?
Monongalia County scores 51.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #50 in West Virginia. The best way to evaluate Monongalia 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 Monongalia County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

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