Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Five Forks, WV
Considering a move to Five Forks, WV? This tiny rural community of around 50 people offers quiet living, low housing costs (median home price about $78,000), and low crime rates (75 violent crimes per 100K). Expect affordable rents, a low cost of living index (80.2), and a relaxed pace with a typical commute of 28 minutes. While schools and major amenities are limited locally, you'll find friendly neighbors, beautiful Appalachian scenery, and a peaceful climate with four distinct seasons.
Demographics - Five Forks, WV
Demographics - Five Forks, WV
Five Forks, WV is a small, close-knit rural community with a population of about 50 people, a median age of 46.2 years, and a predominantly White demographic. The area is sparsely populated, offering a tranquil lifestyle with less than 10 residents per square mile. The community is primarily English-speaking, with a nearly even gender ratio.
Population:
approx. 50
Density:
less than 10 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
1.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
97.5%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
1.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Five Forks, WV?
The cost of living in Five Forks is notably affordable, with a cost of living index of 80.2 and a median house value of $78,000. Residents benefit from low housing and utility costs, making it an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly rural living. Groceries, transportation, and healthcare expenses are also below the national average.
Median House Value:
$78,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$900
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$320
State Taxes:
Low:
3%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
80.2
Grocery:
94.5
Housing:
60.2
Utilities:
98.4
Transportation:
85.7
Health Care:
90.3
Miscellaneous:
85.0
Crime
Is Five Forks, WV a safe place to live?
Five Forks experiences low crime, with only 75 violent crimes and 840 property crimes per 100,000 residents, resulting in a very low chance of encountering crime. This peaceful environment contributes to the area’s appeal for those prioritizing safety. The small population size helps foster a sense of security and neighborliness.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
75
Property Crimes Per 100k:
840
Crime Index:
915
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,333
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 119
Weather
What is the weather like in Five Forks, WV year-round?
The climate in Five Forks features four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 22°F and warm summers reaching highs of 83°F. The area receives about 43 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 55% of the year. Residents can appreciate the beauty of changing seasons and mild weather patterns.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
38°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
55%
Neighbors
Five Forks’ residents have a median household income of $38,000 and a family income of $45,000, with a poverty rate of 22.7%. The community has a strong sense of neighborliness, with most people commuting about 28 minutes for work and less than 1% using public transportation. Educational attainment is moderate, with 81% having at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$24,800
Household Income:
$38,000
Family Income:
$45,000
Per Capita Income:
$18,200
Income Male:
$28,500
Income Female:
$20,600
Poverty Rate:
22.7%
Non English Speakers:
1.1%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
<1%
Commute Time:
28.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
81.4%
Bachelors or More:
13.5%
Education
How are the schools in Five Forks, WV?
Public schooling in Five Forks is anchored by Arnoldsburg Elementary, which serves around 215 students with a favorable student-teacher ratio of 12.3. While private school options are not available locally, higher education is accessible at Glenville State University, located 22 miles away. Educational resources are limited, but nearby institutions provide key opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Arnoldsburg Elementary School
Street:
90 Spring Run Rd
Phone:
304-655-8616
Students:
215
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.3
Colleges
Name:
Glenville State University
City:
Glenville
State:
WV
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
1,600
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Five Forks is supported by the nearby Minnie Hamilton Health System, providing general and emergency services. With 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 90% of people insured, basic medical needs are well-covered locally. The healthcare index of 83.1 indicates reliable but modest care options.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Minnie Hamilton Health System
Address:
186 Hospital Dr, Grantsville, WV 26147
Phone:
(304) 354-9244
Type:
General & Critical Access
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.2%
Health Care Index:
83.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Five Forks, WV?
The housing market in Five Forks is highly affordable, with a median home price of $78,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom around $650. Owner occupancy rates are high at 82.6%, reflecting a stable community with low turnover. Home values have seen modest appreciation and new construction is rare.
Median Home Price:
$78,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
82.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing for Five Forks residents are managed by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, located in Charleston. The DMV provides all essential services, and residents can access information or schedule appointments through the state’s official website or by phone. This central office supports all motor vehicle needs for the area.
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.