Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Tams, WV
Considering a move to Tams, WV? With a small, close-knit population of around 200, Tams offers affordable rural living—median home prices are just $72,000 and average rents run $650. Typical commute times are about 26 minutes, and property crime rates are lower than many urban areas. The region enjoys mild summers, around 60% sunny days, and access to major healthcare in nearby Beckley. While amenities are limited, Tams provides quiet Appalachian charm and low housing costs for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
Demographics - Tams, WV
Tams, WV is a small, close-knit community of approximately 200 residents, with a median age nearing 47, and a population density of 70 people per square mile. The town is predominantly White, with a modest representation of Black and other ethnic groups, and a nearly even gender ratio. Non-English speakers make up a small portion of the population, reflecting the area's traditional Appalachian roots.
Population:
200
Density:
70 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.8
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
88.0%
Black:
9.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
2.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Tams, WV?
Living in Tams is highly affordable, with median home values around $72,000 and average rents at $650 per month. The overall cost of living index is significantly lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious movers. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also modest, helping residents stretch their dollars further.
Median House Value:
$72,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$800
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$300
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.0
Grocery:
93.5
Housing:
45.0
Utilities:
97.0
Transportation:
85.0
Health Care:
92.0
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Tams, WV a safe place to live?
Tams experiences relatively low crime, with a violent crime rate of 180 incidents per 100,000 and a property crime rate of 1,200 per 100,000. Residents have a 1 in 555 chance of being affected by violent crime, which is lower than many urban areas. The town's small size and community ties contribute to its overall sense of safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,200
Crime Index:
1,380
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 83
Weather
What is the weather like in Tams, WV year-round?
Residents of Tams enjoy four distinct seasons, with mild summers reaching highs of 85°F and winters that rarely drop below 25°F. The area receives about 45 inches of rainfall annually and experiences 60% sunny days, offering a pleasant climate for outdoor activities. Spring and fall are comfortable, featuring gentle temperatures ideal for enjoying the Appalachian landscape.

Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
40°F

Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
68°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
The median household income in the area is $32,500, and about 19% of residents live below the poverty line. Most neighbors have completed high school, and the community has a low rate of public transportation use, reflecting rural living. Commute times average just over 26 minutes, supporting a relaxed pace of life.
Median Income:
$28,000
Household Income:
$32,500
Family Income:
$38,000
Per Capita Income:
$18,500
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$25,000
Poverty Rate:
19.2%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
6.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
26.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
82.5%
Bachelors or More:
10.2%
Education
How are the schools in Tams, WV?
Tams is served by local public schools with small class sizes, such as Trap Hill Middle School and Clear Fork District Elementary, fostering personalized learning. For higher education, the West Virginia University Institute of Technology is just 14 miles away in Beckley, providing accessible college opportunities. The community values education, with a majority of adults holding at least a high school diploma.

Public Schools
Name:
Trap Hill Middle School
Street:
665 Coal River Rd
Phone:
304-934-5320
Students:
380
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.1
Name:
Clear Fork District Elementary
Street:
4851 Clear Fork Rd
Phone:
304-294-7511
Students:
220
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.7

Colleges
Name:
West Virginia University Institute of Technology
City:
Beckley
State:
WV
Distance:
14 miles
Students:
1,600
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is convenient, with Raleigh General Hospital located nearby in Beckley offering emergency services. The area has 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% health insurance coverage. Healthcare services are reliable and within easy reach for Tams residents.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Raleigh General Hospital
Address:
1710 Harper Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
Phone:
(304) 256-4100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.5%
Health Care Index:
73.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Tams, WV?
The Tams housing market is notably affordable, with a median home price of $72,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 75%. Rental vacancies are moderate, and home values have seen a steady appreciation rate of 3.1% over the past year. The area offers low-cost entry for both buyers and renters seeking rural charm.
Median Home Price:
$72,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
75.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
1.2%
DMV Information
DMV services for Tams residents are provided by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, with the main office located in Charleston. Residents can access services by phone or online, making licensing and registration processes straightforward. The DMV's website offers comprehensive information for newcomers.
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.