Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Reader, WV
Considering a move to Reader, WV? This small town of around 400 residents offers very affordable living, with median home prices near $85,000 and rents averaging $670. Crime rates are low, and residents enjoy a peaceful setting with an average commute of 27.5 minutes. Local schools are community-centered, and the area experiences four distinct seasons with 54% sunny days each year. Reader is a great fit for those seeking a quiet, budget-friendly lifestyle in a rural West Virginia setting.
Demographics - Reader, WV
Demographics - Reader, WV
Reader, WV is a small rural town with about 400 residents and a median age of 45. The population is predominantly White, and the community maintains a balanced gender ratio, reflecting a close-knit and stable environment.
Population:
400
Density:
150 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.1
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
1.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
98.0%
Black:
0.3%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
1.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Reader, WV?
Reader offers a very affordable cost of living, with median home values around $85,000 and average rents at $670. Utilities and everyday expenses remain below national averages, making it attractive for budget-conscious residents.
Median House Value:
$85,000
Gross Rent:
$670
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,080
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$860
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$315
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
76.2
Grocery:
92.6
Housing:
53.0
Utilities:
94.2
Transportation:
78.5
Health Care:
89.0
Miscellaneous:
75.3
Crime
Is Reader, WV a safe place to live?
The town experiences low crime, with violent crimes at just 90 incidents per 100,000 and a rare chance of property crime. Residents enjoy a safe, peaceful atmosphere that is ideal for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
90
Property Crimes Per 100k:
780
Crime Index:
870
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,110
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 128
Weather
What is the weather like in Reader, WV year-round?
Reader enjoys four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching 85°F and chilly winters dipping to 22°F. The area receives about 42 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine around 54% of the year, offering a balanced climate.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
39°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
The community has a median household income of $41,900 and a poverty rate of 18.6%. Most residents own their homes, and commute times average 27.5 minutes, reflecting the town’s rural character and quiet lifestyle.
Median Income:
$31,500
Household Income:
$41,900
Family Income:
$49,200
Per Capita Income:
$19,100
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$27,500
Poverty Rate:
18.6%
Non English Speakers:
1.8%
Rent:
$670
Unemployment Rate:
6.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0%
Commute Time:
27.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.5%
Bachelors or More:
10.2%
Education
How are the schools in Reader, WV?
Reader is home to Short Line School, which serves local students with a small student-teacher ratio. Nearby, higher education options include West Virginia Northern Community College and West Liberty University, both within an easy drive.
Public Schools
Name:
Short Line School
Street:
52 Bear Run Rd, Reader, WV 26167
Phone:
304-386-4115
Students:
425
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Colleges
Name:
West Virginia Northern Community College
City:
New Martinsville
State:
WV
Distance:
9 miles
Students:
2,400
Name:
West Liberty University
City:
West Liberty
State:
WV
Distance:
36 miles
Students:
2,500
Healthcare
Residents have access to local medical care at Wetzel County Hospital, a general and surgical facility offering emergency services. With nearly 90% health insurance coverage, basic healthcare needs are well supported in the area.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Wetzel County Hospital
Address:
3 E Benjamin Dr, New Martinsville, WV 26155
Phone:
(304) 455-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.2%
Health Care Index:
67.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Reader, WV?
The housing market in Reader is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $85,000 and high owner-occupancy rates near 80%. Home values are appreciating moderately, and the rental market remains accessible with average rents at $670.
Median Home Price:
$85,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$670
Owner Occupied Rate:
79.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents are served by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, with comprehensive services available online and at the main office in Charleston. The DMV offers support for licensing, registration, and vehicle-related needs.
State:
West Virginia
Department:
West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1800 Kanawha Blvd East, 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.