Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Birch River, WV
Considering a quieter lifestyle? Birch River, WV is a small, close-knit community of about 120 residents with affordable housing—median home prices are around $85,000 and average rent is just $650. The cost of living is low, crime rates are comparable to state averages, and commutes average 28 minutes. While education and healthcare options are more limited than in urban areas, Birch River offers a peaceful setting, mild summers, and easy access to nature, making it a welcoming choice for those seeking rural charm.
Demographics - Birch River, WV
Demographics - Birch River, WV
Birch River is a small, close-knit community of 120 people, with a median age of 45 and a population that is predominantly White. The area has a nearly balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, fostering a quiet rural atmosphere ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
120
Density:
110 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.0
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
1.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
97.0%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
1.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Birch River, WV?
Birch River offers an affordable lifestyle, with a median home value of $85,000 and average rent at just $650. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making it a budget-friendly choice for individuals and families alike.
Median House Value:
$85,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$900
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.0
Grocery:
95.0
Housing:
60.0
Utilities:
95.0
Transportation:
85.0
Health Care:
85.0
Miscellaneous:
82.0
Crime
Is Birch River, WV a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Birch River are moderate, with a low violent crime rate and a property crime chance of roughly 1 in 74. Residents can generally expect a safe, peaceful environment typical of small rural towns.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
155
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,350
Crime Index:
1,505
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 645
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 74
Weather
What is the weather like in Birch River, WV year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with mild summers reaching up to 84°F and chilly winters that dip to 22°F. The area receives about 46 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine over half the year, making it pleasant for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
41°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Households in Birch River have a median income of $24,500, and about 22% of residents live below the poverty line. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and commutes average just over 28 minutes, reflecting the area's rural setting.
Median Income:
$24,500
Household Income:
$32,400
Family Income:
$39,600
Per Capita Income:
$18,900
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$25,200
Poverty Rate:
22.5%
Non English Speakers:
1.5%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
6.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
28.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.0%
Bachelors or More:
11.5%
Education
How are the schools in Birch River, WV?
Birch River is home to an elementary school with a favorable student-teacher ratio and offers access to higher education options within a short drive, including Glenville State University and Fairmont State University. While schooling choices are limited locally, educational needs are met through nearby institutions.
Public Schools
Name:
Birch River Elementary School
Street:
529 Birch River Road
Phone:
304-649-2261
Students:
110
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.2
Colleges
Name:
Glenville State University
City:
Glenville
State:
WV
Distance:
33 miles
Students:
1,600
Name:
Fairmont State University
City:
Fairmont
State:
WV
Distance:
60 miles
Students:
3,800
Healthcare
Healthcare access is supported by nearby hospitals offering emergency services, and around 90% of residents have health insurance coverage. With a moderate number of physicians available locally, essential medical needs are within reach for Birch River residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Braxton County Memorial Hospital
Address:
100 Hoylman Drive, Gassaway, WV 26624
Phone:
(304) 364-5156
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Webster Memorial Hospital
Address:
324 Miller Mountain Rd, Webster Springs, WV 26288
Phone:
(304) 847-5682
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.1%
Health Care Index:
68.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Birch River, WV?
The housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $85,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $650. Most homes are owner-occupied, and vacancy rates remain low, providing stable and affordable housing options.
Median Home Price:
$85,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.0%
New Construction Rate:
0.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Local residents are served by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Charleston, which provides essential licensing and vehicle services both in-person and online.
State:
West Virginia
Department:
West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1800 Kanawha Blvd E, Charleston, WV 25317
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.