What to know when moving to Kenova, WV
Kenova at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community with a median household income of $68,048 and 27.1% of residents renting.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $817, making housing relatively affordable.
- The Reality Check:
- Only 1% of residents use public transit, indicating car dependence.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for about 86 rainy days a year, so invest in good rain gear.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
In Kenova, 21.2% of the population holds a bachelor's degree, which is slightly below the national average. The community is relatively small, with a population of 6,642, and the median home value is approximately $144,400. The area has a low poverty rate of 9.7%. While the housing market is affordable, with a median gross rent of $817, residents should be prepared for limited public transit options, as only 1% commute this way.
Probably not your spot if you rely on public transportation, as the car dependency is significant.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median household income is $68,048, which supports a comfortable lifestyle for many.
- Median gross rent is $817, making it affordable compared to national averages.
- Median owner-occupied home value is $144,400, allowing for reasonable home purchases.
- 27.1% of residents are renters, suggesting a healthy mix of homeownership and renting.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
West Virginia has lower crime rates compared to national averages. The state violent crime rate is 257.9 per 100,000 residents, which is 20.7% lower than the national rate. Property crime rates are also lower, with a rate of 1,084.4 per 100,000 residents, 29.9% below the national average.
- Violent crime: 257.9 per 100k vs. national 325.3, a decrease of 13.3% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,084.4 per 100k vs. national 1,546.9, down by 18.8% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rates decreased by 26.1% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for West Virginia).
Schools & Higher Ed
Kenova has access to several schools and higher education institutions in the nearby area, enhancing educational opportunities for residents.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 9
- Nearby notable options include Marshall University and Huntington Junior College.
- Schools are located across Wayne County and neighboring regions.
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Wayne County experiences an average annual precipitation of 33.6 inches, spread over 86 rainy days. Summers can be warm with highs averaging 87°F, while winters are mild with lows around 26°F. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy several parks nearby.
- Central Park - 4.6 stars (2,184 reviews)
- Ritter Park - 4.7 stars (2,046 reviews)
- Beech Fork State Park - 4.6 stars (930 reviews)
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.