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Webster County, West Virginia — County Report Card

WV

#11 in West Virginia

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
69.7
County Score
Property Tax 94.4Cost of Living 93.1Schools 80.8

County Report Card

About Webster County, West Virginia

Strong National Standing

Webster County achieves an impressive composite score of 69.7, far exceeding the national median of 50.0. It ranks as a high-performing outlier in the national data set.

A Top Performer in West Virginia

Webster County's score of 69.7 sits well above the state average of 62.0. It distinguishes itself as one of the more livable counties in the state based on its composite metrics.

Exceptional Affordability and Schools

The county boasts a Tax Score of 94.4 and a Cost Score of 93.1, with median home values at a low $78,000. Additionally, the School Score of 80.8 indicates a strong local educational environment.

Low Income and Water Quality

Despite high overall livability, the Income Score is a very low 4.3, reflecting a median household income of $42,061. Water infrastructure also struggles with a low score of 7.9.

Ideal for Educational and Cost Focus

Webster County is a perfect fit for families prioritizing affordable homeownership and quality schools. It suits residents with established incomes who can overlook local economic limitations.

2040608010094.493.171.636.680.84.364.77.964.8Tax94.4Cost93.1Safety71.6Health36.6Schools80.8Income4.3Risk64.7Water7.9Weather64.869.7/100
This county
National avg
5 above average3 below average

Webster County DNA

C-overall

How Webster County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Webster County scores above average across most dimensions. It's a well-balanced county with particular strength in Cost of Living (93.1/100).

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
94.4+42.400000000000006
Cost
93.1+45.099999999999994
Safety
71.6+16.599999999999994
Health
36.6-13.399999999999999
Schools
80.8+26.799999999999997
Income
4.3-46.7
Risk
64.7+17.700000000000003
Water
7.9-50.1
Weather
64.8+8.799999999999997
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$78,000

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$687/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$78,000/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$27,480/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum1.9x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $42,061/yr
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Economic & Education Snapshot

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

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Nearby counties

Braxton County
West Virginia
68.6
Upshur County
West Virginia
63.7
Pocahontas County
West Virginia
58.1
Nicholas County
West Virginia
63.8
Lewis County
West Virginia
62.2
Randolph County
West Virginia
62.8
Clay County
West Virginia
69.9
Gilmer County
West Virginia
73.7

Deep Dives

Webster County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Webster County

via TaxByCounty

Webster has the nation's friendliest rates

Webster County's effective tax rate of 0.389% ranks among the lowest in America, offering exceptional property tax relief. The median annual tax of just $303 represents 11% of the national median of $2,690—a fraction of what homeowners pay nationwide.

Best tax rate in West Virginia

Webster County's 0.389% effective rate is the lowest among West Virginia counties, sitting 22% below the state average of 0.497%. With a median tax of $303, Webster residents enjoy the greatest tax advantage in the state.

Significantly cheaper than surrounding counties

Webster County's 0.389% rate dramatically undercuts all nearby counties, including Upshur (0.436%), Wayne (0.472%), Wirt (0.534%), Wetzel (0.646%), and Wood (0.614%). At $303 in median taxes, Webster homeowners pay less than one-half what Wood residents pay for comparable property values.

Median $78k home: just $303 yearly

Webster County's median home value of $78,000 results in roughly $303 annually in property taxes—the cheapest rate in the region. Homeowners with mortgages pay approximately $351, while those without average $279.

Already low—but appeals still help

Even at Webster's exceptionally low rates, homeowners should verify their assessments are accurate and fair. Filing an appeal at no cost ensures you're not overpaying, especially if your home value has changed since the last assessment.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Webster County

via CostByCounty

Webster faces West Virginia's toughest squeeze

Webster County's 19.6% rent-to-income ratio is the highest in this seven-county cluster, squeezed by a $42,061 median household income—among the lowest in the state. Against the national median income of $74,755, Webster renters earn 43% less while managing $687 monthly rents.

Webster ranks among state's least affordable

With a 19.6% rent-to-income ratio significantly above West Virginia's 16.9% state average, Webster County ranks as one of the state's most affordability-challenged markets. The county's below-average income of $42,061 magnifies the burden on renters and owners alike.

Webster offers low rents but tight budgets

Webster's $687 rent is the lowest in this comparison and $73 below the state average, yet the county's exceptionally low income of $42,061 makes housing costs feel heaviest. Only Wyoming County ($48,038) comes close to Webster's income constraints in the regional group.

Lowest rents paired with lowest incomes

Though Webster offers the seven-county comparison's lowest median rent ($687) and owner cost ($446), renters still dedicate 19.6% of income to housing—the highest burden here. Homeowners fare better at 12.7% of income, suggesting ownership is Webster's more attainable path.

Webster demands financial caution for renters

Webster County's affordable prices attract those seeking low cost of living, but renters with modest incomes should budget carefully—housing claims nearly one-fifth of earnings. Homebuyers with stable income may find exceptional value in a median home price of just $78,000.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Webster County

via IncomeByCounty

Webster struggles with the widest gap

Webster County's median household income of $42,061 ranks as the lowest in this seven-county group and sits $32,694 below the national median of $74,755—a stark 44% shortfall. This income level reflects the economic challenges facing coal-dependent rural communities as regional industries decline.

Among West Virginia's lowest earners

Webster ranks in the bottom fifth of West Virginia's 55 counties for household income, with a per capita income of $23,343 that significantly lags the state average of $30,335. The county faces structural economic headwinds requiring targeted investment and workforce development to reverse long-term income decline.

Furthest behind regional peers

Webster's $42,061 median trails all six neighboring counties in this study, falling $9,000 behind Wyoming County and nearly $14,000 behind Wood County. The gap reflects Webster's heavier reliance on extractive industries and less economic diversification than counties with stronger service and manufacturing bases.

Housing affordable but income tight

Webster's rent-to-income ratio of 19.6% is technically affordable, and the median home value of $78,000 is the lowest in the region—cheap by design, not by market strength. However, lower home prices often reflect limited demand and economic stagnation, which complicates long-term property value appreciation.

Small steps toward financial resilience

Webster households earning $42,061 face tighter budgets but can still build wealth through disciplined saving and skill investment. Even setting aside $50–100 monthly, combined with pursuit of higher-paying job training or education, compounds into meaningful financial security over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Webster County

via CrimeByCounty

Webster County Offers a Safe Haven

Webster County reports a total crime rate of 681.7 per 100,000, vastly outperforming the national rate of 2,385.5. The county earns a safety score of 98.9 out of 100. This data indicates that the area is statistically much safer than the average U.S. community.

A High Rank in West Virginia Safety

Webster County's safety score of 98.9 exceeds the West Virginia state average of 98.5. Its total crime rate of 681.7 per 100,000 is also significantly better than the state's average of 949.0. Five local agencies provide the data that confirms this strong safety standing.

Comparing Webster and Nearby Upshur

Webster County's crime rate of 681.7 is slightly higher than neighboring Upshur County at 661.7. However, Webster maintains a lower property crime rate than many other surrounding areas. Both counties represent some of the most secure territory in the region.

Understanding the Webster Crime Profile

The county experiences a violent crime rate of 155.5 per 100,000, which is lower than the state average of 213.9. Property crime accounts for 526.2 incidents per 100,000 residents. These numbers mean that while residents should stay aware, the risk of serious crime is very low.

Stay Secure in Webster County

Protecting your home in Webster County starts with standard precautions like securing windows and garages. Since property crimes are more common than violent ones, visible security measures can be effective deterrents. Community awareness remains the best tool for maintaining this high level of safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Webster County

via SchoolsByCounty

Intimate Education in the Mountain Highlands

Webster County maintains a focused infrastructure of just four public schools serving 1,192 total students. This small-scale system includes three elementary schools and one comprehensive high school for the entire county.

Elite Graduation Outcomes for Students

Students here achieve an impressive 97.0% graduation rate, significantly higher than the national 87.0% average. The county spends $8,075 per pupil, outperforming the state average and contributing to a strong school score of 59.5.

Community-Focused School District

Webster County Schools operates as the single district for the region, managing all 1,192 students across its four campuses. There are zero charter schools in the county, emphasizing a community-driven public education model.

A Purely Rural Learning Environment

Every school in Webster County is classified as rural, with an average school size of 298 students. Webster County High School is the largest hub with 526 students, while Hacker Valley Elementary offers a tiny, personal environment with only 53 students.

Success in a Small-Town Setting

For families who value high academic success and small class sizes, Webster County offers a rare 97% graduation rate. Moving near Glade Elementary or Webster Springs provides access to a system where every student is known by name.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Webster County

via RiskByCounty

Webster is West Virginia's safest county

Webster County's composite risk score of 35.27 ranks as the lowest in West Virginia and sits 30% below the state average of 49.21. This very low risk rating reflects minimal exposure to most major hazards, making Webster one of the nation's relatively safer counties for natural disasters.

Bottom of risk ranking in West Virginia

Webster County ranks second-lowest among all 55 West Virginia counties for natural disaster risk, surpassed only by Wirt County. This distinction reflects the county's geographic and climatic isolation from major hazard zones, creating a genuinely low-risk environment.

Significantly safer than surrounding region

Webster's 35.27 score dramatically underperforms neighboring Upshur County (44.85), Wetzel County (56.90), and Wyoming County (67.37), all of which face substantially higher overall risk. The county's isolation from major hazard corridors creates a marked safety advantage in the broader Appalachian region.

Flooding remains the only notable concern

Flood risk at 60.46 is Webster's primary hazard, though still well-managed compared to state levels; wildfire risk drops to just 2.16, nearly negligible. Tornado and earthquake risks rank minimal at 4.48 and 24.33 respectively, making Webster a remarkably safe community overall.

Flood insurance covers your main exposure

Even in a low-risk county, flood insurance remains prudent for properties in flood-prone zones or near streams, since standard homeowners policies exclude water damage. The relatively low overall risk means Webster residents can focus protection investments strategically rather than purchasing comprehensive hazard coverage across all categories.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Webster County

via WaterByCounty

Webster County violation rate exceeds state average

Webster County holds a Water Quality Grade of F with 16 health violations recorded over five years. Its violation rate of 434.9 per 100K is more than double the West Virginia average of 173.7. This high rate signals persistent issues within the county's drinking water infrastructure.

Assessed streams show high health in 2022

A total of 59 water bodies were assessed in the 2022 cycle, with zero percent showing impairment. This data suggests that the natural watershed remains healthy despite the challenges faced by the treated water supply. The county continues to meet Clean Water Act goals for its assessed surface waters.

High-density monitoring provides comprehensive data

Webster County features an impressive 104 monitoring sites that have generated 26,126 measurements over five years. This high volume of data tracks inorganics, metals, and nutrients across the county. It represents one of the most thorough water-quality monitoring efforts in the region.

Elk River flows at half of typical volume

The Elk River below Webster Springs currently flows at 381 cfs, which is 56% of its long-term average. While not as depleted as neighboring streams, the river is significantly below its typical seasonal levels. This moderate flow reduction can affect water temperature and dissolved oxygen levels.

Increased vigilance needed for drinking water safety

With a violation rate far above the state average, residents should pursue independent testing or use certified water filters. The healthy watershed offers a good starting point, but the high number of SDWIS violations suggests problems occur during treatment or distribution. Stay alert to any boil-water advisories from your local provider.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Webster County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool and Exceptionally Wet

Webster County’s 50.5°F average is cooler than the national median. Its defining characteristic is its moisture, influenced by its rugged mountain topography.

Colder and Wetter Than Average

Webster is cooler than the state average of 52.8°F and significantly wetter. It receives 61.3 inches of precipitation, far exceeding the state norm of 47.0 inches.

Regional Leader in Rainfall

With over 61 inches of rain and 80.9 inches of snow, Webster is much wetter than neighbors like Taylor. It is a key water source for the region's river systems.

Snowy Winters and Cool Summers

Winters feature 80.9 inches of snow and a December-February average of 32.2°F. Extreme heat is rare, with only 4 days reaching 90°F annually.

Focus on Water Management

High-capacity gutters and waterproofing are essential for 61.3 inches of rain. Residents should also be prepared for significant snow accumulation throughout the winter.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Webster County

via SoilByCounty

Intensely Acidic Mountain Soils

Webster County soils are highly acidic with an average pH of 4.90, falling significantly below the state average of 5.25. This sharp acidity is a defining characteristic of the local landscape and influences which plants can thrive here.

Low Clay and High Porosity

The soil contains 15.5% silt, 14.6% sand, and a very low 5.4% clay. This low clay content creates a light soil structure that is easy to dig but may struggle to retain minerals compared to heavier soils.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

Organic matter reaches a massive 46.88%, more than double the state average of 21.03%. However, the available water capacity is very low at 0.056 in/in, meaning the soil does not hold moisture well despite its carbon-rich profile.

Managing Rapidly Drying Lands

While official drainage classes are unavailable, the low clay and high organic levels suggest very fast drainage. Landowners should prioritize moisture-retention techniques like heavy mulching to support consistent plant growth.

Acid-Loving Plants Excel in Zone 6b

Though the soil score is 35.6, this county is a paradise for acid-loving species like blueberries, azaleas, and rhododendrons. Utilizing raised beds with amended soil can help vegetables overcome the low water capacity.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Webster County

via LawnByCounty

Tackling the Terrain in Webster

Webster County presents a significant challenge with a lawn difficulty score of 48.9, falling below the national median of 50.0. The local Zone 6b environment requires more intensive management than the average West Virginia county. High rainfall and very acidic soil are the primary hurdles for local growers.

Wet Conditions and Cool Summers

Annual precipitation reaches a staggering 61.3 inches, far exceeding the ideal 30-50 inch range and potentially leaching nutrients from the soil. Conversely, the county only sees 4 days of extreme heat annually, far below the state average of 17. This creates a soggy but cool environment where mold and fungus management are more critical than irrigation.

Extreme Acidity Requires Action

With a pH of 4.90, Webster County has some of the most acidic soil in the region, well below the preferred 6.0 range. The low clay content of 5.4% means the soil has a poor capacity to hold onto vital nutrients. Heavy, regular applications of lime and organic matter are essential to make this soil productive for turf.

Drought is a Rare Visitor

Despite 12 weeks of drought in the past year, current conditions are optimal with 0.0% of the county under stress. Given the high annual rainfall, drought is generally less of a concern here than in other parts of West Virginia. Proper lawn grading is actually more important here to prevent water from pooling during heavy rain events.

A Short but Focused Window

The growing season is compressed, with the last frost hitting on May 7 and the first fall frost arriving early on October 12. Fine fescue or Kentucky bluegrass are excellent choices for these cool, wet conditions. Start your spring seeding mid-May once the ground warms above the chilly 29.7°F January average.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Webster County's county score?
Webster County, West Virginia has a composite county score of 69.7 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 Webster County rank among counties in West Virginia?
Webster County ranks #11 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 Webster County, West Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Webster County is $303, with an effective tax rate of 0.39%. This earns Webster County a tax score of 94.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Webster County?
The median household income in Webster County, West Virginia is $42,061 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Webster County earns an income score of 4.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Webster County, West Virginia a good place to live?
Webster County scores 69.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #11 in West Virginia. The best way to evaluate Webster 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 Webster County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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