Gary, WV
Population 858 · West Virginia
About Gary, WV
Gary is a small community located in West Virginia with a population of 858 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $40,000 per year, which is 47% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.3 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 Gary features a median home value of $55,600, which is 77% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Gary one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 438 total housing units, 92% are owner-occupied (207 units) and 8% are renter-occupied (19 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Gary shows an unemployment rate of 4.3%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 20.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Gary have an average one-way commute time of 35.6 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
3.4% of Gary 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, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Gary Ranks in West Virginia
Cost of Living in Gary, WV
Compared to national averages, Gary has a median household income of $40,000 (47% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $55,600, which is 77% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within West Virginia, Gary's income is 26% below the state average of $54,014, and home values are 57% below the state median of $128,301.
Why Live in Gary, WV?
Gary offers affordable housing with a median home value of $55,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($40,000) that falls below the national average. However, Gary’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Gary has a population of 858 with a median age of 45.3 years. Compare Gary with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in West Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Gary
Cities in West Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Belmont | 853 | $60,750 | $119,800 | Compare |
| Mason | 863 | $47,112 | $91,900 | Compare |
| Piedmont | 872 | $44,792 | $44,500 | Compare |
| McConnell | 837 | $27,935 | $91,700 | Compare |
| Great Cacapon | 836 | $44,267 | $112,500 | Compare |
| Triadelphia | 885 | $55,208 | $91,000 | Compare |
| Smithers | 891 | $32,237 | $72,800 | Compare |
| Middlebourne | 895 | $62,083 | $117,100 | Compare |
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 Gary With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Gary
What is the population of Gary, WV?
The population of Gary, WV is 858 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 Gary?
The median household income in Gary, WV is $40,000 per year, which is 47% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Gary?
The median home value in Gary, WV is $55,600, which is 77% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Gary?
The median monthly rent in Gary, WV is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Gary?
The unemployment rate in Gary, WV is 4.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Gary, WV a good place to live?
Gary offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 858 and a median age of 45.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Gary, WV?
3.4% of residents in Gary 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 Gary?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Gary, WV: median home value is $55,600 (77% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $40,000. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Gary?
The poverty rate in Gary, WV is 20.8%, 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 Gary, WV?
Gary's population is 0.0% White, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 12.2% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.