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Wyoming County, West Virginia — County Report Card

WV

#33 in West Virginia

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
61.5
County Score
Property Tax 91.4Cost of Living 88.3Safety 67.5

County Report Card

About Wyoming County, West Virginia

Above the National Benchmark

Wyoming County earns a composite score of 61.5, which is notably higher than the national median of 50.0. This indicates a quality of life that exceeds the national average.

Matching the State Average

With a score of 61.5, Wyoming County aligns almost perfectly with the West Virginia state average of 62.0. It represents a typical Mountain State experience in terms of overall livability.

Affordable Housing and Low Taxes

Tax burden is low with a score of 91.4, and the Cost Score of 88.3 reflects a median home value of just $78,400. Educational scores are also respectable at 65.1.

Health and Water Infrastructure

The county faces significant hurdles with a Water Score of 6.2 and a Health Score of 18.8. These scores highlight a critical need for improvements in basic utilities and healthcare access.

A Value-Forward Choice

Wyoming County is best for those looking to maximize their purchasing power in the housing market. It fits residents who can provide for their own health and utility needs while enjoying low taxes.

Score breakdown

Tax91.4Cost88.3Safety67.5Health18.8Schools65.1Income11.1Risk32.6Water6.2Weather67.2
🏛91.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠88.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼11.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡67.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤18.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓65.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡32.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧6.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤67.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨46.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱65.6
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

Wyoming County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Wyoming County

via TaxByCounty

Wyoming stays well below national taxes

Wyoming County's effective tax rate of 0.439% is less than one-sixth of the typical American property tax burden. The median annual tax of just $344 represents 13% of the national median of $2,690, delivering significant relief to property owners.

Among West Virginia's lowest-tax counties

Wyoming County's 0.439% effective rate sits comfortably below West Virginia's state average of 0.497%, placing it firmly in the state's tax-friendly tier. The median property tax of $344 is among the lowest statewide, nearly 50% below the state median of $699.

Comparable to the most affordable peers

Wyoming's 0.439% rate is competitive with the region's cheapest counties—Webster (0.389%), Upshur (0.436%), and Wayne (0.472%)—while undercutting Wirt (0.534%), Wetzel (0.646%), and Wood (0.614%). The $344 median tax is second-lowest among area counties, behind only Webster's $303.

A $78k home costs just $344 yearly

Wyoming County's median home value of $78,400 translates to approximately $344 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages pay about $389, while mortgage-free owners average $328.

Still worth verifying your assessment

Even at Wyoming's favorable tax rates, homeowners should confirm their properties aren't overassessed on the tax rolls. A free appeal can validate your assessment accuracy and potentially unlock additional savings if your home value has shifted.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Wyoming County

via CostByCounty

Wyoming struggles with affordability gap

Wyoming's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeds West Virginia's 16.9% state average, reflecting the county's $48,038 median household income—nearly $8,000 below state norms. Against the national median of $74,755, Wyoming renters face a compounded affordability challenge despite modest $737 rents.

Wyoming ranks among state's tightest margins

Wyoming County's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio sits well above West Virginia's 16.9% average, placing it among the state's most affordability-challenged markets. The county's median income of $48,038 ranks second-lowest in this seven-county cluster, compressing housing budgets significantly.

Wyoming trapped between bargain and expensive

Wyoming's $737 rent falls between Wirt's bargain $575 and Upshur's $799, yet the county's low income of $48,038 makes this mid-range cost feel steeper. Only Webster County ($42,061) earns less, making these two the seven-county cluster's most income-challenged.

Renters squeezed; owners escape the pinch

Wyoming renters dedicate 18.4% of income to gross rent, while homeowners pay just 10.6% toward a median owner cost of $426. The $311 monthly gap between rent and owner costs reflects Wyoming's more affordable homeownership relative to renting, yet suggests ownership still requires careful financial planning.

Wyoming appeals to homebuyers with tight budgets

Wyoming County's low median home value of $78,400 and owner costs make homeownership achievable for modest-income families, but renters should budget carefully. Relocators with children and plans to buy should explore Wyoming; those renting long-term might find better comfort in Wirt, Wetzel, or Upshur.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Wyoming County

via IncomeByCounty

Wyoming faces significant income gap

Wyoming County's median household income of $48,038 falls $26,717 below the national median of $74,755—a concerning 36% shortfall. The figure also trails West Virginia's state average of $54,746 by $6,708, placing Wyoming among the state's lower-income counties.

Wyoming ranks among lower earners

Wyoming places in the bottom third of West Virginia's 55 counties for household income, with a per capita income of $24,665 that significantly underperforms the state average of $30,335. The county's economic structure remains tied to coal and extraction industries, limiting wage growth and income diversification.

Second lowest in regional group

Wyoming's $48,038 median ranks second-to-last among the seven counties, ahead only of Webster County ($42,061) but trailing all others by meaningful margins. Wyoming's per capita income of $24,665 is second-lowest in the cluster, indicating limited per-worker earning power and fewer high-wage jobs relative to population.

Housing affordable but tight overall

Wyoming's rent-to-income ratio of 18.4% is affordable on paper, and the median home value of $78,400 is among the region's lowest—reflecting depressed demand rather than true value. Lower housing costs provide some relief, but stagnant wages and limited job growth constrain overall household financial stability.

Invest in skills and resilience

Wyoming households earning $48,038 must prioritize skill development and education to unlock better-paying opportunities in emerging industries. Even modest investments in workforce training, certifications, or entrepreneurship can meaningfully increase earning power and build financial security amid structural economic change.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Wyoming County

via CrimeByCounty

Wyoming County Offers Strong National Safety

Wyoming County's total crime rate of 758.1 per 100,000 is much lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This earns the county a safety score of 98.8 out of 100. It remains an exceptionally safe place to live by nearly all national standards.

Maintaining Safety Above the State Average

Wyoming County's safety score of 98.8 is higher than the West Virginia state average of 98.5. Its total crime rate of 758.1 per 100,000 is also well below the state average of 949.0. Six agencies contribute to the county's data, ensuring comprehensive reporting for the region.

Wyoming County vs. Neighboring Wayne

Wyoming County has a slightly higher crime rate at 758.1 compared to Wayne County's 716.6. Wyoming also sees a higher violent crime rate than Wayne, though both remain very safe overall. These two counties represent a highly secure corridor in southern West Virginia.

Violent and Property Crime Trends

The violent crime rate in Wyoming County is 324.9 per 100,000, which is higher than the state average of 213.9. Property crime is reported at 433.2 per 100,000, which is quite low. This indicates that while property is relatively safe, personal safety requires continued community focus.

Stay Vigilant in Wyoming County

While property crime rates are low, keeping your home secure remains a vital part of community safety. Focus on well-lit entryways and being aware of neighborhood activity. These simple steps help maintain Wyoming County's status as a top-tier safe zone in the state.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Wyoming County

via HealthByCounty

Wyoming faces health crisis

Wyoming County's life expectancy of 68.7 years is among the nation's lowest, trailing the U.S. average by 7.7 years and indicating a major public health emergency. A striking 30.5% of residents report poor or fair health—the highest in this entire peer group—reflecting epidemic levels of chronic disease, disability, and premature aging. With 23,000 residents facing this health burden, Wyoming represents one of West Virginia's most vulnerable communities.

West Virginia's worst health county

Wyoming's 68.7-year life expectancy is the lowest in West Virginia, nearly 3.5 years below the state average of 72.2, and its 30.5% poor/fair health rate is the worst statewide. These figures reflect generations of coal-industry decline, persistent poverty (23% below federal poverty line), and opioid crisis devastation. Wyoming exemplifies the acute health disparities facing Southern West Virginia's coalfield counties.

Severe crisis at region's bottom

Wyoming's 68.7-year life expectancy is 6 years below Upshur (74.7) and among the nation's worst, while its 30.5% poor/fair health rate exceeds every peer county. With only 29 primary care providers per 100,000—the second-scarcest access in this group—and 59 mental health providers per 100,000, Wyoming has critical infrastructure gaps. The county faces a perfect storm: poverty, provider scarcity, and addiction converging to drive premature death.

Insurance and access collapse

Wyoming's 9.2% uninsured rate is the highest in this peer group, leaving approximately 2,100 residents without coverage and vulnerable to medical bankruptcy. With only 29 primary care providers per 100,000 and high rates of addiction and mental illness, Wyoming residents face both access and affordability barriers. Daily healthcare reality: uninsured families delay care until emergencies, chronic diseases go unmanaged, and preventive services are absent.

Coverage is urgent and life-saving

Nearly 2,100 Wyoming County residents lack health insurance—the highest uninsured count in this group; visit healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 immediately. Medicaid expansion covers most low-income adults in West Virginia, and ACA subsidies make plans affordable; getting covered can mean the difference between managed chronic disease and medical catastrophe. Additionally, contact local crisis hotlines (988 for suicide/mental health) and opioid treatment programs—Wyoming's addiction crisis demands urgent action.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Wyoming County

via SchoolsByCounty

Comprehensive Rural School Network

Wyoming County operates 14 public schools that serve 3,609 students across a rugged landscape. The district includes eight elementary schools, three middle schools, and two high schools to support its residents.

Exceptional Graduation and Solid Performance

The county's 94.0% graduation rate is a standout metric, significantly exceeding the national average of 87.0%. This success is supported by a $7,367 per-pupil expenditure and a school score of 56.4.

Wyoming County Schools: A Unified District

Wyoming County Schools oversees all 14 campuses and 3,609 students with a single administrative focus. There are currently no charter schools, ensuring all educational resources remain within the traditional public system.

Rural Schools with a Town Touch

Twelve of the county's schools are in rural settings, while two are located in small towns, with an average school size of 278 students. Westside High School is the largest with 585 students, while many elementary schools offer much smaller cohorts.

High Success in the Southern Coalfields

Families moving to Wyoming County can expect high graduation standards and a strong sense of community in schools like Berlin McKinney. The county's 94% graduation rate makes it an attractive destination for education-focused homebuyers.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Wyoming County

via RiskByCounty

Wyoming County carries above-average risk

Wyoming County's composite risk score of 67.37 sits 37% above West Virginia's state average of 49.21 and well above the national average. This elevated risk profile reflects particularly acute exposure to wildfires and flooding that compound the county's disaster vulnerability.

Upper tier of risk among West Virginia counties

Wyoming County ranks among the top 15% most vulnerable counties in West Virginia's 55-county system, reflecting significant natural hazard exposure. Only counties like Wood and Wayne carry meaningfully higher composite risk scores in the state.

Riskier than most Appalachian neighbors

Wyoming's 67.37 score substantially exceeds Upshur County (44.85), Wetzel County (56.90), and dramatically outpaces Webster (35.27) and Wirt (9.03) counties. The gap primarily reflects Wyoming's outsized wildfire risk of 74.52—among West Virginia's highest—combined with severe flood exposure of 82.70.

Wildfire and flooding drive risk profile

Wyoming County faces extreme exposure to wildfire (74.52) and flood (82.70) risks, ranking among the state's highest for both hazards. Tornado risk adds a secondary concern at 9.16, though the dual wildfire-flood threat dominates the county's disaster preparedness agenda.

Prioritize wildfire and flood protection

Wyoming residents should immediately secure both flood insurance and comprehensive homeowners coverage that includes wildfire protection. Implement property hardening measures like fire-resistant roofing, clear vegetation buffers around structures, and ensure grading slopes away from foundations to minimize combined fire and water exposure.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Wyoming County

via WeatherByCounty

Wyoming County’s Tempered Mountain Climate

With an average annual temperature of 53.9°F, Wyoming County sits just above the national median. This region balances mountain cooling with Appalachian humidity, creating a distinct and temperate four-season profile.

Wetter and Warmer Than the State Average

The county’s 53.9°F annual average exceeds the West Virginia average of 52.8°F. Wyoming County also records 49.2 inches of annual precipitation, making it significantly wetter than the statewide average of 47.0 inches.

Consistent Rain Amid Regional Extremes

Compared to Wood County, Wyoming County receives nearly six inches more rain per year. However, it stays much cooler during the peak of summer, recording only 13 days over 90°F while Wood County endures 24.

Heavy Snow and Mild Summers

Winters bring a substantial 20.4 inches of snowfall, nearly double the amount seen in the state's river valley counties. Summer peaks are moderate, with a July average of 73.7°F and only 13 extreme heat days per year.

Equip for Snow and High Precipitation

Residents need reliable snow removal equipment and winter tires to manage the 20.4-inch annual snowfall. With nearly 50 inches of rain, robust drainage systems and waterproof outdoor gear are essential for the local environment.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Wyoming County

via SoilByCounty

Sandy Entisols of the Southern Hills

Wyoming County is characterized by Entisols with an average pH of 5.10. This makes the soil more acidic than both the state average of 5.25 and the national median of 6.5.

A High-Sand, Low-Clay Mixture

The soil composition is 32.1% sand, 27.2% silt, and 11.4% clay. This high sand content provides excellent aeration for roots and makes the soil relatively easy to work compared to clay-heavy regions.

Strong Organic Richness and Water Storage

Organic matter is impressive at 22.57%, beating the state average of 21.03%. The available water capacity of 0.144 in/in is slightly higher than the state average, providing a reliable moisture supply for growing plants.

Managing Water in Sandy Soils

While specific drainage classes aren't listed, the soil's 32.1% sand content typically indicates high permeability. This helps prevent water from pooling on the surface during the heavy rainstorms common in southern West Virginia.

Extended Growing in Zone 7a

Wyoming County enjoys a 7a hardiness zone, allowing for a longer season for warm-weather crops like squash and peppers. A soil score of 46.1 shows the land has great potential if the acidity is managed with lime.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Wyoming County

via LawnByCounty

Wyoming County's Steady Growing Potential

Wyoming County earns a lawn difficulty score of 65.6, placing it right in line with the West Virginia state average. As a Zone 7a region, it enjoys a milder climate than many of its northern neighbors. This allows for a wider variety of grass species to be successfully maintained.

High Rainfall and Moderate Heat

The county receives 49.2 inches of rain annually, nearly hitting the top of the 50-inch ideal range. With 13 extreme heat days, the summers are cooler than the state average of 17. The 3441 growing degree days provide a long and productive season for both cool-season and some warm-season grasses.

Sandy Soils and Acidic Levels

A soil pH of 5.10 means you will need to apply lime to reach the 6.0-7.0 range required for healthy turf. The soil is notably sandy at 32.1%, which helps with drainage but can lead to faster drying during the summer. Focus on adding organic matter to help these sandy soils hold onto nutrients more effectively.

Stable Moisture Levels

Wyoming County faced 7 weeks of drought last year, which is moderate compared to other parts of the state. With current drought conditions at 0.0%, there is no immediate threat to established lawns. Because of the high sand content, keep an eye on soil moisture during dry spells as the ground will lose water faster than clay-heavy soils.

Target Late April for Success

The last spring frost typically passes by April 22, making late April the perfect time to begin your lawn projects. You have until October 27 before the first fall frost, offering a generous autumn window for repair and overseeding. Consider using a tall fescue mix to handle both the 73.7°F July temperatures and the sandy soil conditions.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Wyoming County's county score?
Wyoming County, West Virginia has a composite county score of 61.5 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 Wyoming County rank among counties in West Virginia?
Wyoming County ranks #33 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 Wyoming County, West Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Wyoming County is $344, with an effective tax rate of 0.44%. This earns Wyoming County a tax score of 91.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Wyoming County?
The median household income in Wyoming County, West Virginia is $48,038 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Wyoming County earns an income score of 11.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Wyoming County, West Virginia a good place to live?
Wyoming County scores 61.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #33 in West Virginia. The best way to evaluate Wyoming 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 Wyoming 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.