Rupert, WV
Population 977 · West Virginia
About Rupert, WV
Rupert is a small community located in West Virginia with a population of 977 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $31,875 per year, which is 58% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.7 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 Rupert features a median home value of $98,100, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Rupert one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $581, 50% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 392 total housing units, 58% are owner-occupied (188 units) and 42% are renter-occupied (138 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Rupert shows an unemployment rate of 2.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 49.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Rupert have an average one-way commute time of 30.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
5.9% of Rupert 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, 2.5% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.5% of the population being foreign-born.
How Rupert Ranks in West Virginia
Cost of Living in Rupert, WV
Compared to national averages, Rupert has a median household income of $31,875 (58% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $98,100, which is 60% below the national median. Monthly rent at $581 is 50% below the US average of $1,163. Within West Virginia, Rupert's income is 41% below the state average of $54,014, and home values are 24% below the state median of $128,301.
Why Live in Rupert, WV?
Rupert offers affordable housing with a median home value of $98,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $581/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.7%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($31,875) that falls below the national average. However, Rupert’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Rupert has a population of 977 with a median age of 33.7 years. Compare Rupert with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in West Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Rupert
Cities in West Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Hills | 971 | $143,125 | $254,700 | Compare |
| Sprague | 971 | $59,643 | $108,900 | Compare |
| Clendenin | 994 | $49,423 | $81,700 | Compare |
| Chapmanville | 1,005 | $35,655 | $216,700 | Compare |
| New Cumberland | 949 | $39,412 | $88,600 | Compare |
| Monongah | 944 | $54,412 | $86,400 | Compare |
| Fort Ashby | 1,011 | $0 | $215,400 | Compare |
| West Union | 940 | $69,911 | $108,300 | 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 Rupert With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Rupert
What is the population of Rupert, WV?
The population of Rupert, WV is 977 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 Rupert?
The median household income in Rupert, WV is $31,875 per year, which is 58% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Rupert?
The median home value in Rupert, WV is $98,100, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Rupert?
The median monthly rent in Rupert, WV is $581, which is 50% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Rupert?
The unemployment rate in Rupert, WV is 2.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Rupert, WV a good place to live?
Rupert offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 977 and a median age of 33.7, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Rupert, WV?
5.9% of residents in Rupert 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 Rupert?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Rupert, WV: median home value is $98,100 (60% below national), median rent is $581/month, and median household income is $31,875. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Rupert?
The poverty rate in Rupert, WV is 49.1%, 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 Rupert, WV?
Rupert's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 2.5% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.5% of residents are foreign-born.