Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Charleston, WV
Considering a move to South Charleston, WV? With a welcoming population of around 12,250, this city offers affordable living, a median home price of $149,000, and average rents near $860. Commutes are short at just over 19 minutes, and you'll find local schools and colleges nearby. While crime rates are moderate, residents enjoy 54% sunny days annually and a friendly, tight-knit community. Explore South Charleston's cost-effective lifestyle, healthcare access, and educational opportunities as you plan your move.
Demographics - South Charleston, WV
Demographics - South Charleston, WV
South Charleston, WV is home to about 12,250 residents, with a population density of 1,700 people per square mile and a median age of 41.4. The community is predominantly White, with smaller Black, Asian, and other populations, and has a nearly balanced gender ratio. A small percentage of residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting a largely English-speaking, close-knit Midwestern atmosphere.
Population:
12,250
Density:
1,700 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.4
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
85.2%
Black:
8.5%
Asian:
2.0%
Others:
4.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Charleston, WV?
Residents enjoy a low cost of living, with the index at 79.1 compared to the national average. The median home value is $149,000 and average rents are $860, making housing quite affordable. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also below typical U.S. levels, helping your budget stretch further in South Charleston.
Median House Value:
$149,000
Gross Rent:
$860
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,300
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,170
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.1
Grocery:
95.0
Housing:
62.0
Utilities:
94.0
Transportation:
82.0
Health Care:
89.0
Miscellaneous:
84.0
Crime
Is South Charleston, WV a safe place to live?
South Charleston experiences moderate crime rates, with 252 violent crimes and 2,180 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 397, while property crime risk is higher at 1 in 46. Overall, while caution is advised, the city remains a relatively safe place to live by regional standards.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
252
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,180
Crime Index:
2,432
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 397
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 46
Weather
What is the weather like in South Charleston, WV year-round?
The city experiences four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging 27°F to 44°F and warm summers reaching up to 86°F. South Charleston enjoys about 54% sunny days each year and receives approximately 41 inches of rainfall, creating a pleasant climate ideal for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes bring colorful scenery and comfortable temperatures for most of the year.
Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
44°F
Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
72°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Local households have a median income of $52,400 and a poverty rate of 15%. The vast majority of residents have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute time is just over 19 minutes. The community is known for its friendly neighbors and accessible amenities, making daily living convenient and connected.
Median Income:
$36,500
Household Income:
$52,400
Family Income:
$70,200
Per Capita Income:
$31,400
Income Male:
$42,000
Income Female:
$36,000
Poverty Rate:
15.0%
Non English Speakers:
3.2%
Rent:
$860
Unemployment Rate:
5.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.9%
Commute Time:
19.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.8%
Bachelors or More:
25.1%
Education
How are the schools in South Charleston, WV?
South Charleston provides a range of educational opportunities, including public and private schools with favorable student-teacher ratios. Higher education is accessible, with BridgeValley Community & Technical College located in the city and the University of Charleston just a few miles away. The community values education, as reflected in its high school graduation rate of nearly 92%.
Public Schools
Name:
South Charleston High School
Street:
1 Eagle Way
Phone:
304-766-0352
Students:
960
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.5
Name:
Bridgeview Elementary School
Street:
5100 Peter's Creek Rd
Phone:
304-766-0355
Students:
380
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Private Schools
Name:
South Charleston Christian Academy
Street:
1001 Jefferson Rd
Phone:
304-744-2231
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
BridgeValley Community & Technical College
City:
South Charleston
State:
WV
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,400
Name:
University of Charleston
City:
Charleston
State:
WV
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
2,800
Healthcare
South Charleston offers accessible healthcare, with two major hospitals—Thomas Memorial Hospital and CAMC General Hospital—providing general and emergency services nearby. There are 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents, and over 93% of people have health insurance coverage. The city’s healthcare index reflects reliable medical care for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Thomas Memorial Hospital
Address:
4605 MacCorkle Ave SW, South Charleston, WV 25309
Phone:
(304) 766-3600
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
CAMC General Hospital
Address:
501 Morris St, Charleston, WV 25301
Phone:
(304) 388-5432
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.5%
Health Care Index:
68.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Charleston, WV?
The housing market in South Charleston is affordable, with a median home price of $149,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $860. About 60% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has a relatively low foreclosure rate. Modest home appreciation and available rental options make it a practical choice for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$149,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$860
Owner Occupied Rate:
60.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.9%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing are managed by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in nearby Charleston. Residents can access services in person, by phone, or online for all standard DMV needs. The DMV offers helpful resources for new arrivals and long-term locals alike.
State:
West Virginia
Department:
West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
5707 MacCorkle Ave SE, 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.