Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Terra Alta, WV
Considering a move to Terra Alta, WV? This friendly town of about 1,420 residents offers an affordable lifestyle, with median home prices around $120,000 and average rents at just $740. You'll enjoy peaceful small-town living, low violent crime (105 per 100K), and a reasonable commute of about 29 minutes. Local schools provide close-knit learning environments, and the area features four distinct seasons with 54% sunny days each year. If you're seeking affordability, safety, and scenic mountain surroundings, Terra Alta is a great place to call home.
Demographics - Terra Alta, WV
Demographics - Terra Alta, WV
Terra Alta is a small, close-knit town of around 1,420 residents, with a predominantly White population and a median age of 41.2 years. The community has a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, fostering a welcoming and familiar environment. Its population density supports a friendly, small-town atmosphere ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Population:
1,420
Density:
1,120 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
97.5%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
1.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Terra Alta, WV?
Living in Terra Alta is highly affordable, with a median home value of $120,000 and average rent at $740, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious movers. The cost of living index is 78.5, well below the national average, while utilities and groceries remain reasonably priced. State taxes are moderate, ensuring manageable day-to-day expenses for residents.
Median House Value:
$120,000
Gross Rent:
$740
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,010
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$375
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.5
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
54.8
Utilities:
97.3
Transportation:
85.1
Health Care:
90.7
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Terra Alta, WV a safe place to live?
Terra Alta boasts a low violent crime rate of 105 incidents per 100,000 people, offering residents peace of mind. Property crime is somewhat higher but still manageable, with a 1 in 87 chance annually. Overall, the town provides a relatively safe environment compared to many communities of similar size.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
105
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,150
Crime Index:
1,255
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 950
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 87
Weather
What is the weather like in Terra Alta, WV year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with winter lows around 19°F and summer highs reaching 78°F. The area receives about 45.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 54% of the year. This climate offers diverse seasonal activities and scenic mountain views.
Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
The median household income in Terra Alta is $48,500, and most residents are employed locally or commute about 29 minutes for work. The community features a high school graduation rate of 87%, a poverty rate of 16.4%, and low public transportation usage, reflecting its rural character. Neighbors enjoy a quiet, family-friendly setting with a strong sense of community.
Median Income:
$34,200
Household Income:
$48,500
Family Income:
$58,100
Per Capita Income:
$23,800
Income Male:
$35,500
Income Female:
$30,100
Poverty Rate:
16.4%
Non English Speakers:
2.1%
Rent:
$740
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
29.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.0%
Bachelors or More:
15.8%
Education
How are the schools in Terra Alta, WV?
Education in Terra Alta centers on its local public school, Terra Alta/East Preston School, which serves around 450 students with a favorable student-teacher ratio of 13.5. While there are no private schools, higher education is within reach at West Virginia University in Morgantown, just 28 miles away. The community values education and provides students with supportive learning opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Terra Alta/East Preston School
Street:
500 E State Ave
Phone:
304-789-2425
Students:
450
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Colleges
Name:
West Virginia University
City:
Morgantown
State:
WV
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
25,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in Terra Alta is anchored by Preston Memorial Hospital, located nearby in Kingwood and offering emergency services. With 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% health insurance coverage, basic medical needs are well-supported. The town benefits from accessible care within a short drive.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Preston Memorial Hospital
Address:
Kingwood, WV 26537
Phone:
(304) 329-1400
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.5%
Health Care Index:
66.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Terra Alta, WV?
The housing market in Terra Alta is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $120,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate at 72.8%. Rental options are available, with average rents for a two-bedroom at $740 and a moderate vacancy rate. Modest home appreciation suggests steady investment value for buyers.
Median Home Price:
$120,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$740
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
DMV services for Terra Alta residents are provided by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Morgantown. Residents can access vehicle registration, licensing, and other essential services locally or online. The DMV offers convenient resources and support for all transportation needs.
State:
West Virginia
Department:
West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
180 Spruce St, Morgantown, WV 26505
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.