Welch, WV Utility & Living Guide

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Welch, WV Utility & Living Guide

Welch is a city in and the county seat of McDowell County, West Virginia, United States. The population was 3,590 at the 2020 census. Welch was incorporated as a city in 1893.

Last updated: June 26, 2026
Total Utilities$250/mo
1BR Rent$800/mo
Sales Tax6%
COL Index87 (-13% below national average)
Family Score5/10
Median Home$120,000
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⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Welch
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$140/mo

Appalachian Power
🔥 Gas

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$30/mo

City of Welch Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$20/mo

McDowell 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$1300/mo
Median Home Price$120,000
Property Tax Rate0.65%
Avg Childcare/mo$800

The housing market in Welch is relatively affordable, with many older homes and some new construction available. Rentals are also available, but may be limited. The city has undergone some revitalization efforts in recent years

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

87

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

-13% below national average

Groceries

94

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 state income tax with rates ranging from 3% to 6.5%

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
5/10
Safety Index

40

Higher = safer
School Rating

5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$800/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
-10% (declining)
Political Climate
Red
Business Momentum
Low, with key industries including healthcare, education, and government services
Top Local Concerns
Economic development, public safety, infrastructure
🚌 Transit for Families

Public transit options are limited in Welch, but the city has some sidewalks and crosswalks, making it possible to get around with a stroller

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Welch City Park
  • 🎯
    McDowell County Public Library
  • 🎯
    Twin Falls State Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The downtown area and surrounding neighborhoods offer a mix of older homes and some new construction, with easy access to amenities like parks and schools. However, some areas of the city may have more limited services and higher crime rates

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📊 Welch — Census & Demographic Data

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

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Utility costs in Welch can fluctuate significantly by season, 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, natural gas is not commonly used, but electricity and water bills may still be higher due to heating and holiday lighting

🏛️ Local Tax Details

The ZIP code 24801 has a property tax millage rate of 12.5, with no local surtaxes

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

4/10, due to limited sidewalks and crosswalks in some areas, but some parks and green spaces are stroller-accessible

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