Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kanawha Head, WV
Considering a move to Kanawha Head, WV? With a friendly small-town population of around 175, Kanawha Head offers affordable living, including median home prices near $88,000 and average rents of $720. Residents enjoy a low violent crime rate, peaceful surroundings, and easy commutes averaging just under 30 minutes. The area features a laid-back rural lifestyle, access to regional schools and healthcare, and a climate with four distinct seasons and plenty of sunny days. Experience West Virginia’s welcoming community and affordable cost of living in Kanawha Head.
Demographics - Kanawha Head, WV
Demographics - Kanawha Head, WV
Kanawha Head is a close-knit rural community with a population of about 175 people and a median age nearing 48, making it ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life. The area is predominantly White, and the gender balance is nearly even, with a small percentage of non-English speakers, contributing to its welcoming and familiar atmosphere.
Population:
175
Density:
30 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.8
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
1.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.8%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
2.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Kanawha Head, WV?
The cost of living in Kanawha Head is notably affordable, with median home values around $88,000 and average rents at $720 per month. Everyday expenses like utilities and groceries are below national averages, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious residents.
Median House Value:
$88,000
Gross Rent:
$720
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,025
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$900
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$310
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.2
Grocery:
96.5
Housing:
52.0
Utilities:
97.3
Transportation:
88.1
Health Care:
91.2
Miscellaneous:
84.7
Crime
Is Kanawha Head, WV a safe place to live?
Kanawha Head experiences a low violent crime rate, with odds of being affected at just 1 in 855, contributing to a sense of safety and peace of mind. Property crime occurs more frequently, but overall, the community enjoys a relatively secure environment compared to larger cities.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
117
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,290
Crime Index:
1,407
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 855
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 78
Weather
What is the weather like in Kanawha Head, WV year-round?
Residents enjoy all four seasons, with winters dipping to around 22°F and summers reaching up to 82°F. The area receives nearly 48 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine nearly 60% of the year, making it ideal for those who appreciate a variety of weather.

Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
41°F

Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
68°F

Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
82°F

Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
The median household income is $42,500, with about 18.7% of residents living below the poverty line, reflecting a modest but hardworking community. Commute times average just under 30 minutes, and most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation rather than public transit.
Median Income:
$38,500
Household Income:
$42,500
Family Income:
$52,000
Per Capita Income:
$24,800
Income Male:
$35,200
Income Female:
$29,100
Poverty Rate:
18.7%
Non English Speakers:
1.2%
Rent:
$720
Unemployment Rate:
5.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
29.6 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
83.4%
Bachelors or More:
13.8%
Education
How are the schools in Kanawha Head, WV?
Local students attend public schools such as Buckhannon-Upshur High School and Rock Cave Elementary, both offering manageable class sizes. Higher education opportunities are available nearby at West Virginia Wesleyan College, located just 15 miles away.

Public Schools
Name:
Buckhannon-Upshur High School
Street:
270 B-U Drive
Phone:
304-472-3720
Students:
1,080
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4
Name:
Rock Cave Elementary School
Street:
4307 Webster Rd
Phone:
304-924-6611
Students:
195
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.2

Colleges
Name:
West Virginia Wesleyan College
City:
Buckhannon
State:
WV
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
1,300
Healthcare
Healthcare needs are served by nearby facilities like St. Joseph's Hospital in Buckhannon, and most residents have health insurance coverage. With about 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people, access to medical care is adequate for the area's size.

Major Hospitals
Name:
St. Joseph's Hospital
Address:
1 Amalia Drive, Buckhannon, WV 26201
Phone:
(304) 473-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.8%
Health Care Index:
68.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Kanawha Head, WV?
Kanawha Head offers a stable housing market with a median home price of $88,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate near 80%. Homes have seen modest appreciation in value, and rental options remain reasonably priced and available.
Median Home Price:
$88,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$720
Owner Occupied Rate:
79.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Kanawha Head residents are provided by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, with the main office located in Charleston and accessible by phone or online. Residents can handle licensing, registration, and other DMV needs through state resources.
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.