West Virginia housing costs at a glance
| West Virginia | |
|---|---|
| Median home value (Zillow) | $179,000 |
| Average effective property tax | 0.48% |
| Typical rate for a new buyer (calculator default) | 0.55% |
| Average homeowners insurance ($300k dwelling) | $1,536 a year |
| 2026 conforming loan limit (one unit) | $832,750 |
Example: median-priced home
West Virginia home for $179,000, 20% down, 6.5% 30-year fixed: principal and interest $905 + property tax $82 + insurance $128 = about $1,115 a month. Enter your own rate quote and the actual tax rate of the property for a precise figure.
West Virginia property tax
West Virginia assesses homes at 60% of their value, and owner-occupied homes are taxed at the lowest of the state's property classes. The average effective rate is about 0.48%. Owners aged 65 and over and people with disabilities get a homestead exemption on the first $20,000 of assessed value.
Other West Virginia costs
- Transfer (excise) tax: state and county taxes of about $3.30 per $1,000 of the price, usually paid by the seller.
- Insurance: about $1,540 a year, well below the national average.
- Median-priced homes here have one of the lowest payments in the US. See also the West Virginia paycheck calculator.
Other states
See also the West Virginia paycheck calculator and mortgage costs in other states.
Frequently asked questions
What is the property tax rate in West Virginia?
About 0.48% of home value on average.
What is the monthly payment on a median-priced West Virginia home?
On a $179,000 home with 20% down at 6.5%, principal and interest are about $905; with property tax at 0.55% and average insurance the total is about $1,115 a month.
Who pays the transfer tax in West Virginia?
Usually the seller: state and county excise taxes of about $3.30 per $1,000 of the price.
Is there a homestead exemption in West Virginia?
Yes, $20,000 of assessed value for owners aged 65 and over and for people with disabilities.
For information only; not a loan offer. Property tax, insurance and closing costs depend on the specific property and lender.
Sources
- West Virginia Tax Division – property tax
- FHFA – 2026 conforming loan limits
- U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 – real estate taxes (via NAHB / Construction Coverage)
- Zillow Home Value Index
- Insurify – home insurance by state
Rules checked: October 2026