Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Big Otter, WV
Thinking of moving to Big Otter, WV? This small rural community of about 300 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $92,000 and average rents at only $650. Expect a peaceful lifestyle, low crime rates, and quick commutes—plus friendly local schools and beautiful Appalachian scenery. While amenities are limited, nearby healthcare and colleges are accessible, and the area enjoys four-season weather with over half the days sunny. Ideal for those seeking tranquility and low cost of living in a tight-knit West Virginia setting.
Demographics - Big Otter, WV
Demographics - Big Otter, WV
Big Otter is a close-knit rural community with an estimated population of 300, predominantly White, and a median age of 44.1 years. The area has a balanced gender ratio and a very low percentage of non-English speakers, fostering a homogenous and friendly small-town atmosphere.
Population:
300 (estimated)
Density:
25 per sq mi (estimated, rural area)
Median Age:
44.1
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
1.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
97.1%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
1.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Big Otter, WV?
The cost of living in Big Otter is notably affordable, with a median home value of $92,000 and average rents around $650 per month. Utility and transportation costs are moderate, making it an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly living in West Virginia.
Median House Value:
$92,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$890
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$320
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.5
Grocery:
94.1
Housing:
53.3
Utilities:
98.3
Transportation:
91.2
Health Care:
86.7
Miscellaneous:
74.6
Crime
Is Big Otter, WV a safe place to live?
Big Otter enjoys a low crime rate, with violent crimes being rare and the chance of property crime at about 1 in 74. Residents benefit from a safe, peaceful environment ideal for families and those prioritizing security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
170
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,350
Crime Index:
1,520
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 590
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 74
Weather
What is the weather like in Big Otter, WV year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with summer highs reaching 84°F and winter lows dropping to 22°F. The area receives about 45.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine over half the year, perfect for those who appreciate varied Appalachian weather.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
40°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Local households have a median income of $41,500, and about 22.5% of residents live below the poverty line. The community features lengthy commute times and low public transit use, with most neighbors working locally or in nearby towns.
Median Income:
$23,000
Household Income:
$41,500
Family Income:
$51,000
Per Capita Income:
$19,200
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$28,000
Poverty Rate:
22.5%
Non English Speakers:
1.8%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
6.3%
Public Transport Usage:
0.1%
Commute Time:
29.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
81.6%
Bachelors or More:
11.2%
Education
How are the schools in Big Otter, WV?
Big Otter offers local public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios, and higher education options are accessible within a 30–50 mile radius. The area is suitable for families seeking a supportive school environment and proximity to regional colleges.
Public Schools
Name:
Clay County High School
Street:
1 Panther Dr
Phone:
304-587-4226
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Big Otter Elementary School
Street:
2596 Big Otter Hwy
Phone:
304-286-3115
Students:
225
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.8
Colleges
Name:
Glenville State University
City:
Glenville
State:
WV
Distance:
34 miles
Students:
1,500
Name:
West Virginia State University
City:
Institute
State:
WV
Distance:
53 miles
Students:
3,500
Healthcare
Big Otter residents have access to general medical and emergency care at nearby hospitals, including Clay County Medical Center and Braxton County Memorial Hospital. Health insurance coverage is high at nearly 90%, and the area maintains a solid healthcare index for its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Clay County Medical Center
Address:
1053 Clinic Dr, Ivydale, WV 25113
Phone:
(304) 587-4241
Type:
General
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Braxton County Memorial Hospital
Address:
100 Hoylman Dr, Gassaway, WV 26624
Phone:
(304) 364-5156
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.7%
Health Care Index:
64.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Big Otter, WV?
Housing in Big Otter is predominantly owner-occupied, with a median home price of $92,000 and a modest appreciation rate. Rental options are available, though most residents choose to own, reflecting the area’s stability and affordability.
Median Home Price:
$92,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
82.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Residents are served by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office in Charleston providing licensing and registration services both in person and online.
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.