Rand, WV
Population 915 · West Virginia
About Rand, WV
Rand is a small community located in West Virginia with a population of 915 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $36,964 per year, which is 51% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 55.3 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 Rand features a median home value of $84,900, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Rand one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $903, 22% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 585 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (321 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (150 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Rand shows an unemployment rate of 7.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 23.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Rand have an average one-way commute time of 23.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.3% of Rand 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 1.2% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Rand, WV
Compared to national averages, Rand has a median household income of $36,964 (51% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $84,900, which is 65% below the national median. Monthly rent at $903 is 22% below the US average of $1,163. Within West Virginia, Rand's income is 32% below the state average of $54,014, and home values are 34% below the state median of $128,301.
Why Live in Rand, WV?
Rand offers affordable housing with a median home value of $84,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $903/month, and short commute times averaging just 23.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($36,964) that falls below the national average. However, Rand’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Rand has a population of 915 with a median age of 55.3 years. Compare Rand with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in West Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Rand
Cities in West Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Addison (Webster Springs) | 913 | $32,708 | $98,600 | Compare |
| Cassville | 900 | $117,643 | $231,800 | Compare |
| Bath (Berkeley Springs) | 899 | $36,250 | $185,400 | Compare |
| Middlebourne | 895 | $62,083 | $117,100 | Compare |
| Smithers | 891 | $32,237 | $72,800 | Compare |
| West Union | 940 | $69,911 | $108,300 | Compare |
| Monongah | 944 | $54,412 | $86,400 | Compare |
| Triadelphia | 885 | $55,208 | $91,000 | 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 Rand With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Rand
What is the population of Rand, WV?
The population of Rand, WV is 915 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 Rand?
The median household income in Rand, WV is $36,964 per year, which is 51% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Rand?
The median home value in Rand, WV is $84,900, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Rand?
The median monthly rent in Rand, WV is $903, which is 22% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Rand?
The unemployment rate in Rand, WV is 7.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Rand, WV a good place to live?
Rand offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 915 and a median age of 55.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Rand, WV?
15.3% of residents in Rand 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 Rand?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Rand, WV: median home value is $84,900 (65% below national), median rent is $903/month, and median household income is $36,964. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Rand?
The poverty rate in Rand, WV is 23.0%, 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 Rand, WV?
Rand's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, and 38.6% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.