Affordable & Income-Based Housing in Charleston

Affordability

Charleston has a median household income of $65,812 and a median gross rent of $908 per month, with 37% of residents renting their homes, according to Census ACS 5-Year data (2024). The 13 HUD-assisted and income-based properties in the city, with a combined 1,119 units, offer an important resource for renters seeking costs tied to income rather than market rates.

Safety

According to FBI Crime Data Explorer, the Charleston Police Department reported a violent crime rate of 543 per 100,000 residents in 2024. Crime rates are not comparable across cities due to differences in reporting practices and local definitions.

Getting Around Charleston

According to Walk Score, the area around assisted properties in Charleston scores 60 (Somewhat Walkable) and a Bike Score of 38. No Transit Score is available for this area.

Schools

Charleston is served by 30 public schools across 2 districts -- including 19 elementary, 5 middle, and 6 high schools -- according to NCES Common Core of Data. Ratings vary by school and district, so renters should check the assigned schools for a specific address.

Housing Costs in Charleston, WV

The median household income in Charleston is $65,812 per year, according to Census ACS 5-Year data. Understanding how assisted housing rents compare to local market rents can help you gauge your potential savings.

The citywide median rent is $908 per month, according to Census ACS 5-Year data. Rents at HUD-assisted and income-based properties are typically calculated as a percentage of your household income, which can result in significantly lower monthly payments than market-rate housing.

• Median household income: $65,812/year (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Median market rent: $908/month (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Renter-occupied households: 37% of all households (Census ACS 5-Year)
• HUD-assisted units available: 1,119 across 13 properties in Charleston

At income-based properties, your rent is generally set at 30% of your adjusted gross income, meaning your actual payment will depend on your household's earnings rather than the local market rate.

Flood and Environmental Exposure

All 13 assisted properties in Charleston were mapped for flood risk. Of those, 1 property falls in a high-risk flood zone, while the remaining 12 are not designated high-risk.