Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Big Chimney, WV
Thinking of moving to Big Chimney, WV? With a small-town population of about 1,200 and a median home price around $109,000, you'll find affordable living and a friendly Appalachian community. Commutes average just 23 minutes, and renters pay a typical $820 per month. Crime rates are moderate for the region, and the area enjoys four distinct seasons with 58% sunny days. Local schools serve the community, and nearby Charleston offers additional amenities, healthcare, and higher education options—making Big Chimney a relaxed, budget-friendly place to settle down.
Demographics - Big Chimney, WV
Demographics - Big Chimney, WV
Big Chimney is a small community of about 1,200 residents, characterized by a predominantly White population and a median age of 43.2, suggesting a mature and stable environment. The area has a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, making it a close-knit and accessible place for families and newcomers alike.
Population:
1,200
Density:
900 per sq mi
Median Age:
43.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.5%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
0.3%
Others:
2.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Big Chimney, WV?
Living in Big Chimney is notably affordable, with a median home value of $109,000 and average rent around $820 per month. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly housing and everyday expenses.
Median House Value:
$109,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$340
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.2
Grocery:
91.2
Housing:
62.8
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
84.1
Health Care:
90.6
Miscellaneous:
87.3
Crime
Is Big Chimney, WV a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Big Chimney are moderate for a small town, with a violent crime rate of 240 per 100,000 and a property crime rate of 1,700 per 100,000 residents. While these figures indicate some risk, the area remains relatively safe compared to larger urban centers.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
240
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,700
Crime Index:
1,940
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 415
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 59
Weather
What is the weather like in Big Chimney, WV year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 85°F and chilly winters dropping to 24°F. The town receives about 44.5 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine 58% of the year, offering a pleasant climate for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
24°F
Max:
42°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
69°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
The median household income in Big Chimney is $49,200, and about 15% of residents live below the poverty line. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and commutes are manageable at just under 23 minutes, reflecting a working-class community with modest incomes and education levels.
Median Income:
$34,500
Household Income:
$49,200
Family Income:
$57,800
Per Capita Income:
$25,300
Income Male:
$40,500
Income Female:
$29,800
Poverty Rate:
15.2%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
22.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.6%
Bachelors or More:
17.9%
Education
How are the schools in Big Chimney, WV?
The area is served by both public and private schools with manageable student-teacher ratios, offering quality education for families. Higher education options are easily accessible in nearby Charleston, with universities like West Virginia State University located within a short drive.
Public Schools
Name:
Shoals Elementary School
Street:
5320 Big Tyler Rd
Phone:
304-776-0216
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.1
Name:
Sissonville High School
Street:
6100 Sissonville Dr
Phone:
304-348-1954
Students:
670
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.8
Private Schools
Name:
Charleston Catholic High School
Street:
1033 Virginia St E
Phone:
304-342-8415
Students:
418
Colleges
Name:
West Virginia State University
City:
Institute
State:
WV
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
3,500
Name:
University of Charleston
City:
Charleston
State:
WV
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
2,900
Healthcare
Healthcare needs are well supported by nearby major hospitals in Charleston, and about 93% of residents have health insurance coverage. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people, quality medical services and emergency care are readily accessible to the community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
CAMC General Hospital
Address:
501 Morris St, Charleston, WV 25301
Phone:
(304) 388-5432
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Thomas Memorial Hospital
Address:
4605 MacCorkle Ave SW, South Charleston, WV 25309
Phone:
(304) 766-3600
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.4%
Health Care Index:
70.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Big Chimney, WV?
Big Chimney's housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $109,000 and a high owner-occupied rate of 72.5%. Rental options are available with moderate vacancy rates, and home values have seen steady appreciation over the past year.
Median Home Price:
$109,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are provided by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles in nearby Charleston, offering convenient access for licensing and vehicle registration. Residents can utilize both in-person and online services for their transportation 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.