West Virginia Cost of Living 2026

Here is how West Virginia compares to the national average across major spending categories. An index above 100 means the category is more expensive than average, while below 100 means it is more affordable.

Key Takeaways for West Virginia

• Housing (66.8): Housing costs are well below the national average, making West Virginia one of the more affordable states for housing.
• Groceries (93.6): Grocery prices are below the national average, providing some relief on everyday expenses.
• Transportation (92.4): Transportation costs are below the national average.
• Healthcare (89.2): Healthcare costs are below the national average, which can be a significant advantage for families and retirees.
• Utilities (95.4): Utility costs are near the national average.

Biggest Factor in West Virginia

The most expensive category in West Virginia relative to national averages is Utilities at an index of 95.4, while the most affordable is Housing at 66.8. The low housing costs are a major advantage for West Virginia residents, allowing for more disposable income compared to high-cost states.