Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Belva, WV
Considering a move to Belva, WV? This quiet rural community of just 90 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $82,000 and rents near $620. The cost of living index is well below the national average, and most homes are owner-occupied. Commute times average 31 minutes, and while amenities are limited locally, major hospitals and colleges are within a short drive. The area enjoys four distinct seasons, low crime rates, and a close-knit, peaceful atmosphere—ideal for those seeking small-town charm.
Demographics - Belva, WV
Belva, WV is a small, close-knit rural community with a population of just 90 residents and a median age of 48.2, offering a peaceful lifestyle. The area is predominantly White, with a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers. Its low population density and mature demographic make it an appealing choice for those seeking tranquility away from city bustle.
Population:
90
Density:
30 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.5%
Black:
0.8%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
2.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Belva, WV?
Belva offers a very affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $82,000 and average rent around $620. The overall cost of living index is significantly below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals or families. Utilities and groceries are also reasonably priced, contributing to the area's appeal for those seeking value.
Median House Value:
$82,000
Gross Rent:
$620
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$720
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$285
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.4
Grocery:
92.2
Housing:
44.1
Utilities:
96.7
Transportation:
83.0
Health Care:
91.3
Miscellaneous:
85.0
Crime
Is Belva, WV a safe place to live?
Residents of Belva benefit from a low crime environment, with a violent crime rate of 180 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 1,350 per 100,000. The chance of experiencing violent crime is quite low at 1 in 555. This safe atmosphere adds to the town's appeal for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,350
Crime Index:
1,530
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 74
Weather
What is the weather like in Belva, WV year-round?
Belva experiences four distinct seasons, with mild to warm summers reaching up to 85°F and winters with lows around 24°F. The area receives about 48 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys 57% sunny days, offering a pleasant setting for outdoor activities year-round. Seasonal changes provide a classic Appalachian climate with plenty of variation.
Winter
Min:
24°F
Max:
41°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
The community in Belva is modest, with a median household income of $36,200 and a poverty rate of 19.6%. Most residents commute around 31 minutes to work, and public transportation use is minimal. Educational attainment is solid, with over 80% having completed high school, reflecting the town’s hardworking and tight-knit character.
Median Income:
$22,600
Household Income:
$36,200
Family Income:
$47,800
Per Capita Income:
$19,300
Income Male:
$27,000
Income Female:
$21,500
Poverty Rate:
19.6%
Non English Speakers:
2.0%
Rent:
$620
Unemployment Rate:
7.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
31.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
80.1%
Bachelors or More:
8.9%
Education
How are the schools in Belva, WV?
Belva is served by Gauley Bridge Elementary School with a student-teacher ratio of about 14:1, offering a supportive environment for young learners. While there are no private schools locally, higher education options such as BridgeValley Community and Technical College and West Virginia University Institute of Technology are within a short drive. This ensures residents have convenient access to both K-12 and post-secondary education.
Public Schools
Name:
Gauley Bridge Elementary School
Street:
511 Main St, Gauley Bridge, WV 25085
Phone:
304-632-2508
Students:
110
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Colleges
Name:
BridgeValley Community and Technical College
City:
Montgomery
State:
WV
Distance:
17 miles
Students:
1,800
Name:
West Virginia University Institute of Technology
City:
Beckley
State:
WV
Distance:
37 miles
Students:
1,700
Healthcare
Belva residents have access to major hospitals such as CAMC Memorial Hospital and Summersville Regional Medical Center within a reasonable drive. With 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and about 90% health insurance coverage, healthcare services are accessible. Emergency care and general medical services are readily available in nearby towns.
Major Hospitals
Name:
CAMC Memorial Hospital
Address:
3200 MacCorkle Ave SE, Charleston, WV 25304
Phone:
(304) 388-5432
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Summersville Regional Medical Center
Address:
400 Fairview Heights Rd, Summersville, WV 26651
Phone:
(304) 872-2891
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.2%
Health Care Index:
66.7
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Belva, WV?
Belva’s housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $82,000 and about 76% of homes being owner-occupied. Rental options are available with average two-bedroom rents at $620, and the area sees steady but modest home appreciation. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates make it a stable market for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$82,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$620
Owner Occupied Rate:
75.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
DMV services for Belva are provided by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, located in Charleston. Residents can access driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services either in person or online. The DMV is easily reachable for routine motor vehicle needs.
State:
West Virginia
Department:
West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
5707 MacCorkle Ave SE, Charleston, WV 25304
Phone:
1-800-642-9066
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.