Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Switchback, WV
Considering a move to Switchback, WV? This small, close-knit community of just 75 residents offers affordable living with a median home price around $54,000 and rents averaging $600. Crime rates are moderate for the region, and you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace with short 20-minute commutes and 58% sunny days each year. While the cost of living is low, services are limited and education options are modest, but the serene Appalachian setting is ideal for those seeking peace and outdoor recreation.
Demographics - Switchback, WV
Demographics - Switchback, WV
Switchback, WV is a small community of 75 residents with a median age of 48, reflecting a mature population. The town is predominantly White, with about 12% Black residents and a nearly even split between men and women. Most residents speak English, contributing to a close-knit and familiar atmosphere.
Population:
75
Density:
45 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.0
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
85.0%
Black:
12.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
2.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Switchback, WV?
Living in Switchback is highly affordable, with a median home value of $54,000 and average rents at $600 per month. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it attractive for budget-conscious movers. Utilities and basic expenses also tend to be lower than in larger cities.
Median House Value:
$54,000
Gross Rent:
$600
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$700
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$320
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
76.0
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
43.0
Utilities:
97.0
Transportation:
84.0
Health Care:
88.0
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Switchback, WV a safe place to live?
Switchback experiences moderate crime rates for the region, with a 1 in 345 chance of being a victim of violent crime and a 1 in 56 chance for property crime. These numbers suggest a generally safe community, though residents should remain mindful of property security. The overall crime index indicates the area is comparable to other small towns in West Virginia.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
290
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,780
Crime Index:
2,070
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 345
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 56
Weather
What is the weather like in Switchback, WV year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with mild summers peaking around 82°F and cool winters dipping to 22°F. The area receives about 42 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine 58% of the year, offering a pleasant climate for outdoor enthusiasts. Spring and fall are particularly comfortable, making for scenic transitions throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
41°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
Switchback’s neighbors tend to have modest incomes, with a median household income of $31,000 and a relatively high poverty rate of 27%. Most adults have completed high school, though only about 10% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The area is marked by low public transportation use and average commute times of roughly 20 minutes.
Median Income:
$28,000
Household Income:
$31,000
Family Income:
$37,000
Per Capita Income:
$15,200
Income Male:
$33,000
Income Female:
$26,000
Poverty Rate:
27.0%
Non English Speakers:
2.0%
Rent:
$600
Unemployment Rate:
7.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
20.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
78.0%
Bachelors or More:
10.5%
Education
How are the schools in Switchback, WV?
Switchback is served by Mount View High School, which offers a low student-teacher ratio for its 350 students. While there are no private schools in town, higher education is accessible at Bluefield State University about 25 miles away. Educational opportunities are modest but sufficient for most family needs.
Public Schools
Name:
Mount View High School
Street:
950 Mount View Road
Phone:
304-436-4657
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Colleges
Name:
Bluefield State University
City:
Bluefield
State:
WV
Distance:
25 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is anchored by Welch Community Hospital located nearby, providing general and emergency services. The town has about 1.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 87%. Healthcare services are adequate for routine needs, but specialized care may require travel to larger cities.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Welch Community Hospital
Address:
454 McDowell St, Welch, WV 24801
Phone:
(304) 436-8461
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.0%
Health Care Index:
69.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Switchback, WV?
The housing market in Switchback is very affordable, with a median home price of $54,000 and high owner-occupancy at 73%. Rental options are available, with two-bedroom units averaging $600 per month and a relatively low vacancy rate. Modest home appreciation and limited new construction offer stability for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$54,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$600
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
13.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
1.2%
DMV Information
DMV services for Switchback residents are provided by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, located in Charleston. Residents can access licensing, registration, and other vehicle services via the state’s DMV office, website, or helpline. This ensures essential motor vehicle needs are met through convenient state resources.
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.