Let the numbers do the talking.
Charleston, WV vs Elkins, WV
Charleston, WV vs Elkins, WV: What the data shows
Charleston, WV is in Charleston, WV while Elkins, WV is in Elkins, WV — both in the same state. On home prices, Elkins, WV is the more affordable option at $143,300 median — $22,000 less than Charleston, WV's $165,300. WYLT rates Charleston, WV as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Elkins, WV as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Elkins, WV has the stronger safety profile of the two. Charleston, WV has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Elkins, WV has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Charleston, WV has Low flood risk and Elkins, WV has Low flood risk.
Elkins, WV is the more walkable neighborhood. Charleston, WV scores 42/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Elkins, WV's 61/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Charleston, WV has the higher school rating — Charleston, WV rates 8.4/10 and Elkins, WV rates 8/10.
| Category | Charleston, WV | Elkins, WV |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $165K | $143K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $568 ✓ Lower rent | $754 |
| Median Income | $24K | $48K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 42/100 | 61/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 15 min ✓ Shorter commute | 30 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.4/10 ✓ Better schools | 8/10 |
| Best for | Families with school‑seeking kidsRetirees on a budgetDog owners needing lots of outdoor space | budget buyersretireessmall families |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
Share this comparison