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Raleigh County, West Virginia — County Report Card

WV

#53 in West Virginia

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
42.1
County Score
Property Tax 84.4Lawn Care 78.5Weather & Climate 69.8

County Report Card

About Raleigh County, West Virginia

Raleigh County Trails the National Median

Raleigh County holds a composite score of 42.0, falling below the national median of 50.0. This ranking reflects the economic and infrastructure challenges facing the southern West Virginia region.

Ranking Below the West Virginia Average

The county's overall score sits significantly below the West Virginia state average of 62.0. It struggles to keep pace with state leaders in categories like safety and community health.

Low Taxes and Affordable Housing Costs

Tax efficiency is a major draw, with a high tax score of 84.4 and an effective rate of only 0.514%. Housing remains accessible, featuring a median home value of $142,600 and a cost score of 64.5.

Significant Safety and Health Hurdles

Safety is the primary concern with a score of 6.4, while the health score lags at 26.4. These factors, combined with an income score of 18.7, present ongoing challenges for resident well-being.

Best for Budget-Conscious Renters

This county suits residents who prioritize low monthly expenses, such as the $847 median rent, over high-end amenities. It appeals to those looking to stretch a $52,055 median income in a very low-tax environment.

Score breakdown

Tax84.4Cost64.5Safety6.4Health26.4Schools41.3Income18.7Risk34.5Water21.8Weather69.8
🏛84.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠64.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼18.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡6.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤26.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓41.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡34.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧21.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤69.8
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 →
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Nearby counties

Fayette County
West Virginia
50.7
Wyoming County
West Virginia
61.5
Summers County
West Virginia
60.9
Boone County
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Mercer County
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Logan County
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McDowell County
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Kanawha County
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Deep Dives

Raleigh County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Raleigh County

via TaxByCounty

Raleigh's taxes rank low nationally

At 0.514%, Raleigh County's effective property tax rate sits well below the national median of 0.73%, placing it in the lower third of all U.S. counties. Homeowners here pay $733 annually in property tax compared to the national median of $2,690, a difference driven by lower home values rather than higher tax rates.

Above average for West Virginia

Raleigh County's 0.514% effective rate ranks it slightly above West Virginia's state average of 0.497%, making it mid-range among the state's 55 counties. The median tax of $733 exceeds the state median of $699, reflecting a property tax burden that's fairly typical for the region.

Mixed rates across the region

Among neighboring counties, Raleigh falls in the middle: Taylor County (0.527%) is slightly higher, while Summers County (0.304%) and Randolph County (0.391%) are considerably lower. Ritchie County (0.649%) carries the region's heaviest burden, making Raleigh a moderate option for the area.

What $733 means for your home

On the median home value of $142,600, Raleigh County homeowners pay about $733 annually. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $870 once insurance and loan costs are factored in; without a mortgage, the property tax alone sits at $601.

You may be overpaying on taxes

Many West Virginia homeowners discover their properties are assessed above fair market value, making them eligible for tax appeals. If your recent assessment seems high relative to comparable homes in Raleigh County, filing an appeal could reduce your annual burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Raleigh County

via CostByCounty

Raleigh's rent burden tops national average

Raleigh County residents spend 19.5% of their income on rent, compared to the national average of about 15%. The county's median household income of $52,055 lags 30% behind the national median of $74,755, making housing costs a bigger squeeze for local renters.

Raleigh ranks among state's least affordable

At 19.5%, Raleigh's rent-to-income ratio exceeds West Virginia's state average of 16.9%, placing it among the less affordable counties statewide. Median rent of $847 monthly also runs $87 above the state average, despite lower incomes.

Higher rent than surrounding counties

Raleigh renters pay $847 monthly versus $807 in nearby Randolph County and $583 in Ritchie County. Only Summers County's $922 rent exceeds Raleigh's, making it a pricier option in the region.

Housing takes nearly one-fifth of income

Rent consumes $847 monthly (19.5% of income), while homeownership averages $651 monthly in mortgage costs. A median home value of $142,600 remains accessible compared to national medians, but rental affordability pressures are real.

Compare Raleigh to more affordable peers

If housing costs matter in your relocation decision, consider Ritchie County (13.9% rent-to-income ratio) or Roane County (15.7%), both nearby with significantly lower rental burdens. Raleigh works best for homebuyers; renters may find better value in neighboring counties.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Raleigh County

via IncomeByCounty

Raleigh earns 30% below the nation

Raleigh County's median household income of $52,055 sits nearly $23,000 below the national median of $74,755. This income gap reflects broader economic challenges facing rural Appalachian communities compared to wealthier urban and suburban areas nationwide.

Middle of the pack in West Virginia

At $52,055, Raleigh County ranks near the state median of $54,746, placing it squarely in the middle tier of West Virginia's 55 counties. The county slightly underperforms the state average, suggesting its economy mirrors broader statewide income trends.

Slightly behind nearby Randolph County

Raleigh County trails neighboring Randolph County by roughly $3,000 in median household income ($55,057 vs. $52,055). Both counties reflect similar economic conditions across central West Virginia, though Randolph's slightly stronger income suggests more diverse employment opportunities.

Rent remains manageable at 19.5%

The county's rent-to-income ratio of 19.5% falls within the affordable range, meaning housing costs consume less than one-fifth of median household income. At a median home value of $142,600, homeownership remains relatively accessible compared to national standards.

Build savings with modest income

With median household income of $52,055, Raleigh residents should prioritize emergency savings and low-cost index fund investing to compound wealth over time. Local credit unions and online brokers offer accessible tools for building retirement security without high fees.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Raleigh County

via CrimeByCounty

Raleigh County Safety Compared to National Standards

Raleigh County reports a total crime rate of 3,195.0 per 100,000 residents, which sits higher than the national average of 2,385.5. Despite this, the county maintains a solid safety score of 95.0 out of 100.

Understanding Safety Within West Virginia

The county's crime rate of 3,195.0 is significantly higher than the West Virginia state average of 949.0. While most West Virginia counties boast higher safety scores, Raleigh remains a busy regional hub with reporting from 9 distinct agencies.

Crime Rates vs. Neighboring Counties

Raleigh faces a much higher total crime rate than neighbor Summers County, which reports just 567.3 incidents per 100,000 people. It also exceeds the crime frequency seen in Roane County's rate of 705.8.

Property Crime Outpaces Violent Incidents

Property crimes drive the local data at 2,830.3 per 100,000 residents, while the violent crime rate is 364.7. This means theft and burglary are much more common risks for residents than physical violence.

Securing Your Raleigh County Residence

Since property crime represents the vast majority of local incidents, securing entry points remains a top priority. Installing smart cameras and motion lights provides an effective deterrent against residential theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Raleigh County

via HealthByCounty

Raleigh falls short of national health benchmarks

At 69.5 years, Raleigh County's life expectancy lags nearly 6 years behind the U.S. average of 75.1 years. One in four residents reports poor or fair health, compared to roughly one in six nationally, signaling deeper wellness challenges across the population.

Among West Virginia's lower-performing counties

Raleigh ranks below the state average life expectancy of 72.2 years, making it one of the state's health outliers. With a poor/fair health rate of 25.7%, the county exceeds the state median, indicating concentrated health disparities.

Raleigh versus surrounding Appalachian counties

Raleigh's 69.5-year life expectancy trails nearby Tucker County (75.1 years) and Tyler County (74.8 years) by 5+ years, though it edges out Summers County (69.4 years) by just months. The gap reflects geographic variation in healthcare access and chronic disease burden across the region.

Solid primary care, but gaps remain

Raleigh County has 77 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—above the state average—yet 7.9% remain uninsured. Mental health providers at 294 per 100K offer robust psychiatric support, but ongoing access barriers persist for low-income and rural populations.

Check your coverage options today

If you're among the 7.9% of uninsured Raleigh County residents, marketplace plans and Medicaid expansion benefits may be within reach. Visit healthcare.gov or contact a local navigator to explore coverage that fits your family's needs and budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Raleigh County

via SchoolsByCounty

A robust educational infrastructure in Raleigh

Raleigh County operates 27 public schools serving 10,867 students within a single unified district. The system features 17 elementary schools, five middle schools, and four high schools to provide comprehensive coverage across the region.

Steady performance and balanced investment

The county maintains an 88% graduation rate, which exceeds the national average of 87% but remains below the state mark of 92.8%. While the school score of 52.9 outperforms the national median, the per-pupil expenditure of $7,193 stays below both state and national spending levels.

One district leading the way

Raleigh County Schools manages all 10,867 students, with no charter schools currently operating in the area. This consolidated approach allows the district to focus resources across its diverse network of 27 campuses.

A mix of city and country settings

Students attend schools in varied environments, including 14 rural locations, eight city campuses, and five suburban sites. Enrollment varies significantly, from the large Woodrow Wilson High School with 1,330 students to smaller local elementary schools.

Put down roots near Raleigh schools

With a graduation rate that beats national benchmarks, Raleigh County offers a reliable foundation for growing families. Explore local real estate to find a home that puts your children in reach of the county's top-performing high schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Raleigh County

via RiskByCounty

Raleigh faces above-average disaster risk

Raleigh County's composite risk score of 65.52 places it well above the national average, indicating elevated exposure to multiple hazards. This rating reflects significant vulnerability to flooding and earthquakes compared to most U.S. counties, though tornado risk remains relatively modest at 15.59.

Highest risk county in West Virginia

Raleigh County ranks as West Virginia's most disaster-prone county, with a composite risk score of 65.52 compared to the state average of 49.21. This 33% elevation above state peers reflects the county's particular susceptibility to flood and wildfire events.

Significantly riskier than neighboring counties

Raleigh's 65.52 risk score far exceeds nearby Summers County (40.24) and Fayette County neighbors, making it a regional outlier for disaster exposure. The county's flood risk of 80.92 is particularly severe compared to most surrounding areas.

Flooding and earthquakes dominate hazard profile

Raleigh County faces critical flood risk scoring 80.92—among the highest in the nation—with earthquake risk at 70.39 also presenting substantial concern. Wildfire risk at 75.10 rounds out the county's top three hazards, each requiring distinct preparation strategies.

Flood insurance essential for Raleigh residents

Given the county's exceptional flood risk, residents should prioritize comprehensive flood insurance, which standard homeowner policies do not cover. Earthquake insurance and wildfire preparedness plans are equally critical given the county's elevated exposure to these hazards.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Raleigh County

via WeatherByCounty

Moderate Temperatures and High Elevation

Raleigh County averages 51.3°F, sitting slightly below the national median for annual temperature. This climate provides a balanced four-season experience without the extreme heat found in lower latitudes.

Cooler and Snowier Than Average

The county stays cooler than the 52.8°F state average. With 47.1 inches of snow annually, it is significantly more wintry than the valley counties to the west.

Snowier Than Summers County

Raleigh receives 47.1 inches of snow, far outpacing neighbor Summers County at 18.8 inches. However, it is drier overall, with 45.5 inches of total precipitation compared to the state average of 47.0.

Rare Heat and Steady Snow

Extreme heat is almost non-existent here, with only one day per year reaching 90°F. Winters are cold and consistent, featuring a 30.9°F January average and frequent snow events.

Focus on Winter Readiness

Residents should prepare for nearly four feet of annual snow with proper tires and insulation. Central air conditioning is less critical than in other parts of the state due to the mild 68.6°F summer average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Raleigh County

via SoilByCounty

Regional acidity shapes local soil identity

While specific local data is limited, Raleigh County follows a state-wide trend of acidic soil conditions. West Virginia averages a pH of 5.25, which is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. Local growers should expect to manage soil acidity to optimize plant health.

A complex mix of texture and structure

Detailed percentages for sand, silt, and clay are currently unavailable for this area. However, the region typically balances drainage and workability based on its varied topography. These textural differences dictate how easily water and roots move through the earth.

High organic matter potential

West Virginia soils boast a high average organic matter content of 21.03%, far exceeding the national average of 2.0%. This richness generally supports a state-wide water capacity of 0.142 in/in. Raleigh County likely mirrors these fertile trends, providing a strong foundation for biomass.

Managing water across the landscape

Drainage and hydrologic classifications are not currently specified for this county's dominant soils. Understanding how water flows is critical for both agricultural planning and residential building projects. Local surveyors can provide site-specific data for those looking to break ground.

Cooler seasons in Hardiness Zone 6b

Raleigh County sits in Hardiness Zone 6b, making it ideal for hardy vegetables and perennial shrubs. The combination of acidic soil and a moderate growing season supports diverse mountain flora. Grab a shovel and start your garden with cold-tolerant crops like kale and berries.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Raleigh County

via LawnByCounty

Prime Conditions for Raleigh County Lawns

Raleigh County earns a 78.5 lawn difficulty score, making it much easier to maintain than the national average of 50.0. The Hardiness Zone 6b environment provides a stable climate for grass to thrive with less effort than neighboring regions.

Steady Moisture with Minimal Heat Stress

Annual precipitation of 45.5 inches sits perfectly within the ideal range for grass health. With only one extreme heat day per year, your lawn avoids the scorching temperatures that typically brown out West Virginia turf in the summer.

Preparing Your Local Soil Base

While specific soil texture data is unavailable, local conditions generally benefit from a baseline nutrient test. Without automated data on pH or clay, homeowners should check for proper drainage before the spring growing season begins.

Managing Seasonal Dry Spells

The county experienced 12 weeks of drought over the last year, though current readings show no abnormal dryness. Maintaining deep watering habits twice a week during dry periods will keep your root systems resilient against future shortages.

Starting Your Zone 6b Turf

Cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass are perfect for Raleigh County’s climate. Aim to seed after the last frost on May 6 to give your lawn time to establish before the fall chill arrives in late October.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Raleigh County's county score?
Raleigh County, West Virginia has a composite county score of 42.1 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 Raleigh County rank among counties in West Virginia?
Raleigh County ranks #53 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 Raleigh County, West Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Raleigh County is $733, with an effective tax rate of 0.51%. This earns Raleigh County a tax score of 84.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Raleigh County?
The median household income in Raleigh County, West Virginia is $52,055 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Raleigh County earns an income score of 18.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Raleigh County, West Virginia a good place to live?
Raleigh County scores 42.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #53 in West Virginia. The best way to evaluate Raleigh 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 Raleigh County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.