Terra Alta, WV
Population 1,992 · West Virginia
About Terra Alta, WV
Terra Alta is a small town located in West Virginia with a population of 1,992 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $50,035 per year, which is 33% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 29.8 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 Terra Alta features a median home value of $95,900, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Terra Alta one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $744, 36% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 771 total housing units, 72% are owner-occupied (498 units) and 28% are renter-occupied (197 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Terra Alta shows an unemployment rate of 8.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 33.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Terra Alta have an average one-way commute time of 25.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
6.9% of Terra Alta 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 1.2% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Terra Alta, WV
Compared to national averages, Terra Alta has a median household income of $50,035 (33% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $95,900, which is 61% below the national median. Monthly rent at $744 is 36% below the US average of $1,163. Within West Virginia, Terra Alta's income is 7% below the state average of $54,014, and home values are 25% below the state median of $128,301.
Why Live in Terra Alta, WV?
Terra Alta offers affordable housing with a median home value of $95,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $744/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($50,035) that falls below the national average. However, Terra Alta’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Terra Alta has a population of 1,992 with a median age of 29.8 years. Compare Terra Alta with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in West Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Terra Alta
Cities in West Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Star City | 1,894 | $62,031 | $256,800 | Compare |
| Nutter Fort | 1,890 | $62,917 | $116,700 | Compare |
| Crab Orchard | 1,877 | $59,122 | $208,000 | Compare |
| Spencer | 2,137 | $25,897 | $108,700 | Compare |
| Belington | 1,843 | $47,361 | $95,200 | Compare |
| Hooverson Heights | 2,156 | $58,681 | $140,700 | Compare |
| Salem | 1,812 | $43,690 | $77,200 | Compare |
| St. Marys | 2,178 | $59,315 | $129,400 | 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 Terra Alta With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Terra Alta
What is the population of Terra Alta, WV?
The population of Terra Alta, WV is 1,992 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 Terra Alta?
The median household income in Terra Alta, WV is $50,035 per year, which is 33% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Terra Alta?
The median home value in Terra Alta, WV is $95,900, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Terra Alta?
The median monthly rent in Terra Alta, WV is $744, which is 36% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Terra Alta?
The unemployment rate in Terra Alta, WV is 8.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Terra Alta, WV a good place to live?
Terra Alta offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,992 and a median age of 29.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Terra Alta, WV?
6.9% of residents in Terra Alta 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 Terra Alta?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Terra Alta, WV: median home value is $95,900 (61% below national), median rent is $744/month, and median household income is $50,035. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Terra Alta?
The poverty rate in Terra Alta, WV is 33.1%, 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 Terra Alta, WV?
Terra Alta's population is 1.2% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.9% two or more races. 0.2% of residents are foreign-born.