Peterstown, WV
Population 657 · West Virginia
About Peterstown, WV
Peterstown is a small community located in West Virginia with a population of 657 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $45,000 per year, which is 40% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 25.1 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Peterstown features a median home value of $117,200, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Peterstown one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $587, 50% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 254 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (140 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (66 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Peterstown shows an unemployment rate of 10.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 29.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Peterstown have an average one-way commute time of 28.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.2% of Peterstown 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, 1.7% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.3% of the population being foreign-born.
How Peterstown Ranks in West Virginia
Cost of Living in Peterstown, WV
Compared to national averages, Peterstown has a median household income of $45,000 (40% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $117,200, which is 52% below the national median. Monthly rent at $587 is 50% below the US average of $1,163. Within West Virginia, Peterstown's income is 17% below the state average of $54,014, and home values are 9% below the state median of $128,301.
Why Live in Peterstown, WV?
Peterstown offers affordable housing with a median home value of $117,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $587/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($45,000) that falls below the national average. However, Peterstown’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Peterstown has a population of 657 with a median age of 25.1 years. Compare Peterstown with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in West Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Peterstown
Cities in West Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hilltop | 655 | $48,750 | $61,900 | Compare |
| Corinne | 660 | $0 | $36,300 | Compare |
| Jefferson | 653 | $0 | $76,900 | Compare |
| Reedsville | 652 | $59,000 | $178,400 | Compare |
| Rowlesburg | 640 | $52,813 | $87,300 | Compare |
| West Hamlin | 640 | $35,263 | $125,000 | Compare |
| Crooked Creek | 675 | $40,104 | $0 | Compare |
| Idamay | 635 | $97,311 | $114,400 | 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 Peterstown With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Peterstown
What is the population of Peterstown, WV?
The population of Peterstown, WV is 657 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 Peterstown?
The median household income in Peterstown, WV is $45,000 per year, which is 40% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Peterstown?
The median home value in Peterstown, WV is $117,200, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Peterstown?
The median monthly rent in Peterstown, WV is $587, which is 50% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Peterstown?
The unemployment rate in Peterstown, WV is 10.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Peterstown, WV a good place to live?
Peterstown offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 657 and a median age of 25.1, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Peterstown, WV?
14.2% of residents in Peterstown 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 Peterstown?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Peterstown, WV: median home value is $117,200 (52% below national), median rent is $587/month, and median household income is $45,000. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Peterstown?
The poverty rate in Peterstown, WV is 29.1%, 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 Peterstown, WV?
Peterstown's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.7% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 9.3% two or more races. 0.3% of residents are foreign-born.