Philippi, WV
Population 2,919 · West Virginia
About Philippi, WV
Philippi is a small town located in West Virginia with a population of 2,919 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $43,203 per year, which is 43% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Philippi features a median home value of $110,900, which is 55% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Philippi one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $780, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,352 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (759 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (361 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Philippi shows an unemployment rate of 10.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 29.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Philippi have an average one-way commute time of 21.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
17.9% of Philippi 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, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 2.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Philippi, WV
Compared to national averages, Philippi has a median household income of $43,203 (43% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $110,900, which is 55% below the national median. Monthly rent at $780 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within West Virginia, Philippi's income is 20% below the state average of $54,014, and home values are 14% below the state median of $128,301.
Why Live in Philippi, WV?
Philippi offers affordable housing with a median home value of $110,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $780/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.7 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($43,203) that falls below the national average. However, Philippi’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Philippi has a population of 2,919 with a median age of 36.3 years. Compare Philippi with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in West Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Philippi
Cities in West Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moorefield | 2,952 | $47,308 | $121,400 | Compare |
| Fayetteville | 2,864 | $59,659 | $165,000 | Compare |
| Kenova | 2,977 | $53,438 | $98,700 | Compare |
| Williamstown | 2,977 | $75,577 | $164,100 | Compare |
| Williamson | 2,979 | $24,119 | $93,300 | Compare |
| Kingwood | 2,980 | $67,411 | $162,700 | Compare |
| Madison | 2,840 | $57,073 | $127,200 | Compare |
| Follansbee | 2,790 | $52,974 | $137,100 | 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 Philippi With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Philippi
What is the population of Philippi, WV?
The population of Philippi, WV is 2,919 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in West Virginia.
What is the median household income in Philippi?
The median household income in Philippi, WV is $43,203 per year, which is 43% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Philippi?
The median home value in Philippi, WV is $110,900, which is 55% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Philippi?
The median monthly rent in Philippi, WV is $780, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Philippi?
The unemployment rate in Philippi, WV is 10.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Philippi, WV a good place to live?
Philippi offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,919 and a median age of 36.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Philippi, WV?
17.9% of residents in Philippi 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 Philippi?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Philippi, WV: median home value is $110,900 (55% below national), median rent is $780/month, and median household income is $43,203. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Philippi?
The poverty rate in Philippi, WV is 29.6%, 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 Philippi, WV?
Philippi's population is 0.0% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 8.6% two or more races. 2.9% of residents are foreign-born.