Average Rent in Mason County, WV↓ Rents falling 3.8% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in WV
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 25,214
Market Overview
Mason County, WV has rental prices ranging from $658/month to $1,130/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $769/month — 45% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $53,454/year, spending $769/month on a 1-bedroom represents 17% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Mason County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $852/month, Mason County ranks #44 most expensive of the 47 cities tracked in West Virginia — more affordable than 91% of all US cities in our data.
The Mason County Rental Market
The Mason County, WV area has a population of about 25,214 and 18% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Mason County, WV have fallen by $34/month (3.8%) over the past year, from $886 to $852. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Mason County, WV without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $30,760. The local median household income of $53,454 exceeds that threshold by $22,694, making Mason County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Mason County, WV has an unemployment rate of 3.4%, 0.5 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Mason County, WV Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in WVlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jefferson County | $944 | $950 | $1,246 | $1,746 | — |
| Lincoln County | $495 | $571 | $686 | $865 | — |
| Putnam County | $838 | $843 | $1,106 | $1,515 | — |
| Morgan County | $629 | $733 | $918 | $1,250 | — |
| Martinsburg | $826 | $959 | $1,204 | $1,673 | — |
| Jackson County | $597 | $704 | $862 | $1,140 | — |
Rent or Buy in Mason County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Mason County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Mason County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Mason CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in WVSee how Mason County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Mason CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋WV Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections