Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wheeling, WV
Thinking of moving to Wheeling, WV? With a population of just under 27,000, Wheeling offers affordable living—median home prices are around $131,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom is about $740. Commutes are short at under 20 minutes, and the cost of living is well below the national average. While the city has a higher property crime rate, residents enjoy a tight-knit community, easy access to healthcare, and good educational opportunities with both public and private schools nearby. Discover more about Wheeling’s housing, schools, and lifestyle below to help you plan your move.
Demographics - Wheeling, WV
Demographics - Wheeling, WV
Wheeling, WV is home to about 26,800 residents with a median age of 44.5, reflecting a mature and stable community. The city is predominantly White, with smaller Black and Asian populations, and has a nearly balanced gender ratio. A small percentage of non-English speakers adds some diversity to the area.
Population:
26,771
Density:
1,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.5
Gender Ratio:
90 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
89.1%
Black:
6.2%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
3.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Wheeling, WV?
Living in Wheeling is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values at $131,000. Residents benefit from affordable rents around $740 and reasonable utility costs, making it an attractive option for those seeking value. State income tax rates are moderate, and everyday expenses like groceries and healthcare are also lower than in many U.S. cities.
Median House Value:
$131,000
Gross Rent:
$740
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,075
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,025
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
3.0%
|
High:
6.5%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.4
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
49.7
Utilities:
98.9
Transportation:
87.3
Health Care:
93.5
Miscellaneous:
88.2
Crime
Is Wheeling, WV a safe place to live?
Wheeling experiences a moderate crime rate, with roughly 305 violent crimes and 2,240 property crimes per 100,000 people. While the chance of being affected by property crime is higher than average, violent crime remains relatively uncommon. Residents often feel secure in most neighborhoods, though staying aware of surroundings is advised.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
305
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,240
Crime Index:
2,545
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 328
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in Wheeling, WV year-round?
Wheeling’s climate features cold winters with lows around 22°F and warm summers reaching up to 83°F. The city receives about 40.6 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine roughly half the year. Seasonal changes offer a variety of outdoor experiences throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
39°F
Spring
Min:
40°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
40.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
50%
Neighbors
Households in Wheeling typically earn around $48,200, with a per capita income of $27,200, and about 18.7% of residents live below the poverty line. The area boasts high high-school graduation rates and a modest percentage of bachelor’s degree holders, with most commutes taking under 20 minutes. The community is close-knit, and public transportation is rarely used.
Median Income:
$27,500
Household Income:
$48,200
Family Income:
$60,700
Per Capita Income:
$27,200
Income Male:
$36,800
Income Female:
$28,600
Poverty Rate:
18.7%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$740
Unemployment Rate:
5.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
19.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.6%
Bachelors or More:
22.1%
Education
How are the schools in Wheeling, WV?
Wheeling offers a variety of educational options, including well-regarded public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and several private school choices. Higher education is easily accessible thanks to local colleges like West Virginia Northern Community College and Wheeling University. Families benefit from strong educational support at every level.
Public Schools
Name:
Wheeling Park High School
Street:
1976 Park View Rd
Phone:
304-243-0400
Students:
1,400
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Name:
Ritchie Elementary School
Street:
3700 Wood St
Phone:
304-243-0380
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.3
Private Schools
Name:
Central Catholic High School
Street:
75 14th St
Phone:
304-233-1660
Students:
220
Colleges
Name:
West Virginia Northern Community College
City:
Wheeling
State:
WV
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,850
Name:
Wheeling University
City:
Wheeling
State:
WV
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,127
Healthcare
Wheeling residents have access to quality healthcare services, including two major hospitals offering emergency care. With 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people and over 91% health insurance coverage, medical needs are well-supported locally. The healthcare system is comprehensive and convenient for families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Wheeling Hospital
Address:
1 Medical Park, Wheeling, WV 26003
Phone:
(304) 243-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Ohio Valley Medical Center
Address:
2000 Eoff St, Wheeling, WV 26003
Phone:
(304) 234-0123
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.5%
Health Care Index:
69.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Wheeling, WV?
The housing market in Wheeling is affordable, with a median home price of $131,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom around $740. Homeownership is common, with nearly two-thirds of residents owning their homes, and vacancy rates are manageable. Modest home appreciation and new construction rates provide stability for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$131,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$740
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Residents of Wheeling are served by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, with the main office located in Charleston. The DMV offers a full range of licensing and registration services both in-person and online. For convenience, residents can access information and resources through the state DMV website or by phone.
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.