War, WV
Population 593 · West Virginia
About War, WV
War is a small community located in West Virginia with a population of 593 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $20,852 per year, which is 72% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.6 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 War features a median home value of $28,800, which is 88% below the national median of $244,900. This makes War one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $722, 38% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 361 total housing units, 57% are owner-occupied (146 units) and 43% are renter-occupied (109 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in War shows an unemployment rate of 28.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 39.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in War have an average one-way commute time of 48 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
9.4% of War 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, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How War Ranks in West Virginia
Cost of Living in War, WV
Compared to national averages, War has a median household income of $20,852 (72% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $28,800, which is 88% below the national median. Monthly rent at $722 is 38% below the US average of $1,163. Within West Virginia, War's income is 61% below the state average of $54,014, and home values are 78% below the state median of $128,301.
Why Live in War, WV?
War offers affordable housing with a median home value of $28,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $722/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($20,852) that falls below the national average. However, War’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
War has a population of 593 with a median age of 33.6 years. Compare War with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in West Virginia.
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Cities in West Virginia with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
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Other Cities in West Virginia
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about War
What is the population of War, WV?
The population of War, WV is 593 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 War?
The median household income in War, WV is $20,852 per year, which is 72% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in War?
The median home value in War, WV is $28,800, which is 88% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in War?
The median monthly rent in War, WV is $722, which is 38% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in War?
The unemployment rate in War, WV is 28.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is War, WV a good place to live?
War offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 593 and a median age of 33.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is War, WV?
9.4% of residents in War 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 War?
Key cost-of-living indicators for War, WV: median home value is $28,800 (88% below national), median rent is $722/month, and median household income is $20,852. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in War?
The poverty rate in War, WV is 39.0%, 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 War, WV?
War's population is 0.0% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.