Clay, WV Utility & Living Guide

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Clay, WV Utility & Living Guide

Clay is a town in and the county seat of Clay County, West Virginia, United States. The population was 399 at the 2020 census. It is the only incorporated town in Clay County.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$250/mo
1BR Rent$800/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index87 (-13% below national average)
Family Score7/10
Median Home$180,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Clay
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Mon Power
🔥 Gas

—

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$30/mo

Clay Public Service District
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

Clay County Solid Waste Authority
📶 Internet

$60/mo

Combined Average Overhead$250/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$800/mo
2 Bedrooms$1000/mo
3 Bedrooms$1400/mo
Median Home Price$180,000
Property Tax Rate0.65%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Clay is relatively affordable, with a range of options from older homes to newer constructions. Rentals are also available, though options may be limited. Overall, the market is stable and suitable for first-time buyers or those looking for a quiet, rural lifestyle.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

87

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

-13% below national average

Groceries

95

Transportation

88

Healthcare

105

Childcare/mo

$800

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax6%
Property Tax Rate0.65%
<p>State 6% + County 0% + City 0%</p>

West Virginia has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 3% to 6.5%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
7/10
Safety Index

70

Higher = safer
School Rating

5.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
-2% (declining)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Low with key industries in agriculture, mining, and small manufacturing
Top Local Concerns
Economic development, infrastructure maintenance, public health
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit is limited in Clay, but the town's small size makes it relatively easy to get around on foot or by car

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Kanawha State Forest
  • 🎯
    Clay County Park
  • 🎯
    Elk River

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The area around downtown Clay offers a charming small-town feel, while the outskirts of town provide more rural, secluded living options. Families may also consider the nearby town of Ivydale for its scenic views and community events.

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📊 Clay — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Clay tend to fluctuate with the seasons, with higher electricity bills in the summer due to air conditioning and higher water bills in the spring due to lawn care. In the winter, residents may see increased costs for heating, though the town's relatively mild winters help keep these costs manageable.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 25043 has a property tax millage rate of 12.5 mills, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

4/10: While Clay has some sidewalks and parks, its infrastructure is not particularly stroller-friendly due to limited pedestrian access and a lack of elevators in public buildings

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