Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Matewan, WV
Considering a move to Matewan, WV? This historic small town of about 430 residents offers a peaceful, affordable lifestyle with median home prices around $55,000 and average rents at $540. Crime rates are low, with violent crime at 185 per 100K and a friendly community feel. Commute times average under 30 minutes, and while schools are small, the area is known for its scenic beauty and mild climate. Matewan is perfect for those seeking a quiet Appalachian lifestyle with a low cost of living.
Demographics - Matewan, WV
Demographics - Matewan, WV
Matewan is a close-knit community of about 430 residents, with a median age of nearly 45, reflecting a mature and stable population. The town is predominantly White, with a small representation of other ethnic groups and a balanced gender ratio. Non-English speakers make up just 2.5% of the population, contributing to a largely homogenous cultural atmosphere.
Population:
430
Density:
420 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.8
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
91.2%
Black:
5.1%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
3.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Matewan, WV?
Matewan offers a notably low cost of living, with a median home value of just $55,000 and average rent at $540 per month. Utilities and groceries are also affordable, and the overall cost of living index is well below the national average. Residents benefit from modest state income taxes, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$55,000
Gross Rent:
$540
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$730
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$320
State Taxes:
Low:
3%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
72.6
Grocery:
92
Housing:
36
Utilities:
95
Transportation:
82
Health Care:
89
Miscellaneous:
78
Crime
Is Matewan, WV a safe place to live?
The town experiences a low crime rate, with only 185 violent crimes and 1,120 property crimes per 100,000 residents, resulting in a tranquil and safe environment. The chance of being affected by violent crime is just 1 in 541, making Matewan appealing for families and retirees. Overall, residents enjoy peace of mind in their daily lives.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
185
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,120
Crime Index:
1,305
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 541
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 89
Weather
What is the weather like in Matewan, WV year-round?
Matewan enjoys four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging lows around 26°F and warm summers reaching highs near 86°F. The area receives about 45 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine 56% of the year. This climate supports a scenic, outdoor-friendly lifestyle year-round.

Winter
Min:
26°F
Max:
43°F

Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
70°F

Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
86°F

Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
The community has a median household income of $30,400 and a relatively high poverty rate of 30%, reflecting modest economic conditions. Most residents commute about 27 minutes to work, and public transportation usage is minimal. Despite economic challenges, the majority of adults have completed high school, and the area maintains a welcoming small-town spirit.
Median Income:
$25,300
Household Income:
$30,400
Family Income:
$38,100
Per Capita Income:
$17,200
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$26,000
Poverty Rate:
30.2%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$540
Unemployment Rate:
7.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
27.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
78.6%
Bachelors or More:
8.1%
Education
How are the schools in Matewan, WV?
Matewan’s educational needs are served by Matewan PK-8 School, known for its small class sizes and supportive environment. Nearby, Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College offers higher education options within a 27-mile drive. The town’s schools foster a close community feel, making it a suitable choice for families.

Public Schools
Name:
Matewan PK-8 School
Street:
100 Tiger Circle
Phone:
304-426-4092
Students:
430
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5

Colleges
Name:
Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College
City:
Logan
State:
WV
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
1,600
Healthcare
Residents have access to nearby medical care at Williamson Memorial Hospital, providing general and emergency services. With 1.4 physicians per 1,000 people and over 91% health insurance coverage, healthcare is accessible for most locals. The overall health care index indicates reliable medical resources for such a small community.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Williamson Memorial Hospital
Address:
859 Alderson St, Williamson, WV 25661
Phone:
(304) 235-2014
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.6%
Health Care Index:
62.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Matewan, WV?
Housing in Matewan is highly affordable, with the median home price at $55,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of nearly 69%. Rentals are accessible, with average two-bedroom units at $540 and a vacancy rate of 12%. Home appreciation remains steady, making it an appealing spot for first-time buyers or retirees.
Median Home Price:
$55,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$540
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
12%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
DMV services for Matewan residents are provided by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Logan. Services include licensing, vehicle registration, and driver assistance, with both in-person and online resources available. This ensures convenient access to all required motor vehicle services.
State:
West Virginia
Department:
West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
180 Willowbrook Plaza, Logan, WV 25601
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.