Let the numbers do the talking.
Charleston, WV vs Fairmont, WV
Charleston, WV vs Fairmont, WV: What the data shows
Charleston, WV is in Charleston, WV while Fairmont, WV is in Fairmont, WV — both in the same state. On home prices, Fairmont, WV is the more affordable option at $160,100 median — $5,200 less than Charleston, WV's $165,300. WYLT rates Charleston, WV as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Fairmont, WV as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Fairmont, WV has the stronger safety profile of the two. Charleston, WV has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Fairmont, WV has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Charleston, WV has Low flood risk and Fairmont, WV has Low flood risk.
Charleston, WV is the more walkable neighborhood. Charleston, WV scores 42/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Fairmont, WV's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Charleston, WV has the higher school rating — Charleston, WV rates 8.4/10 and Fairmont, WV rates 8.3/10.
| Category | Charleston, WV | Fairmont, WV |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $165K | $160K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $568 ✓ Lower rent | $907 |
| Median Income | $24K | $60K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 42/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 15 min ✓ Shorter commute | 60 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.4/10 ✓ Better schools | 8.3/10 |
| Best for | Families with school‑seeking kidsRetirees on a budgetDog owners needing lots of outdoor space | Families with school-aged kidsRetirees looking for a quiet communityRemote workers who can work from home |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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