West Virginia
Category Breakdown
Scores by Category
West Virginia vs National Average
12-Month Composite Trend
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West Virginia Rankings Overview
West Virginia earns an overall grade of D with a composite score of 30.7 out of 100, ranking #46 among all 50 US states. The state's strongest category is Affordability (89/100) while its biggest challenge is Health (4/100).
Economy & Employment in West Virginia
With an unemployment rate of 4.7% (compared to the national average of 3.8%), West Virginia performs below average on economic indicators. The median household income is $54,515, which ranks below the national median of $74,753.
Safety & Crime in West Virginia
West Virginia's violent crime rate of 285 per 100,000 residents places it in the top half of states for public safety.
Health & Education in West Virginia
West Virginia ranks #48 for health outcomes according to the 2025 America's Health Rankings report, and #47 for K-12 education quality based on NAEP scores and graduation rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is West Virginia's overall ranking?
West Virginia ranks #46 out of 50 states with a composite score of 30.7/100 and a grade of D.
Is West Virginia a good place to live?
West Virginia faces several challenges, scoring 30.7/100 in our composite rankings. Areas such as crime rates and economic indicators trail the national average, though the state offers its own unique qualities and ongoing improvement efforts.
What is the crime rate in West Virginia?
The violent crime rate in West Virginia is 285 per 100,000 residents (2024 FBI data), compared to the national average of 350 per 100,000.
How does West Virginia's economy compare?
West Virginia's median household income is $54,515 with an unemployment rate of 4.7%. The unemployment rate is above the national average of 3.8%, and the median income is below the national median of $74,753.
What are the best cities in West Virginia?
West Virginia's major metropolitan areas offer diverse options for residents.