Big Chimney, WV
Population 497 · West Virginia
About Big Chimney, WV
Big Chimney is a small community located in West Virginia with a population of 497 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $72,740 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 54.9 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Big Chimney features a median home value of $216,500, which is 12% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Big Chimney in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 315 total housing units, 84% are owner-occupied (217 units) and 16% are renter-occupied (41 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Big Chimney shows an unemployment rate of 10.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 20.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Big Chimney have an average one-way commute time of 0 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
16.8% of Big Chimney residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Big Chimney, WV
Compared to national averages, Big Chimney has a median household income of $72,740 (3% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $216,500, which is 12% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within West Virginia, Big Chimney's income is 35% above the state average of $54,014, and home values are 69% above the state median of $128,301.
Why Live in Big Chimney, WV?
Big Chimney offers affordable housing with a median home value of $216,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and short commute times averaging just 0 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($72,740) that falls below the national average. However, Big Chimney’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Big Chimney has a population of 497 with a median age of 54.9 years. Compare Big Chimney with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in West Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Big Chimney
Cities in West Virginia with a similar population size.
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in West Virginia
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Big Chimney With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Big Chimney
What is the population of Big Chimney, WV?
The population of Big Chimney, WV is 497 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in West Virginia.
What is the median household income in Big Chimney?
The median household income in Big Chimney, WV is $72,740 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Big Chimney?
The median home value in Big Chimney, WV is $216,500, which is 12% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Big Chimney?
The median monthly rent in Big Chimney, WV is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Big Chimney?
The unemployment rate in Big Chimney, WV is 10.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Big Chimney, WV a good place to live?
Big Chimney offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 497 and a median age of 54.9, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Big Chimney, WV?
16.8% of residents in Big Chimney aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Big Chimney?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Big Chimney, WV: median home value is $216,500 (12% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $72,740. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Big Chimney?
The poverty rate in Big Chimney, WV is 20.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Big Chimney, WV?
Big Chimney's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.