Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in Atenville, WV

Last Updated: January 5, 2026By Tags:
Atenville, WV

Salary And Cost Of Living In Atenville WV

Atenville, WV is a small unincorporated community in Lincoln County, West Virginia, that offers a quiet, rural lifestyle with comparatively low living expenses. While it does not have the size or economic base of larger cities, many residents work in nearby towns such as Hamlin, Huntington, and Charleston, commuting for employment while enjoying Atenville’s lower housing costs and slower pace of life. Understanding the salary levels, cost of living, housing market, neighborhoods, and schools around Atenville, WV can help both current residents and potential movers make informed decisions.

Average Salary In Atenville WV

Because Atenville, WV is a small community, salary data is typically drawn from Lincoln County and the surrounding regional labor market. Overall, wages tend to be modest compared to national averages, but this is offset by a lower cost of living, particularly in housing and everyday expenses.

Estimated average income levels for the Atenville WV area are as follows:

Income Measure (Atenville WV Area) Estimated Amount (Annual)
Typical Individual Salary $28,000 – $35,000
Typical Household Income $40,000 – $50,000
Common Range For Skilled Trades $35,000 – $55,000
Common Range For Health Care & Education $38,000 – $60,000

Many residents in or near Atenville, WV are employed in industries such as health care, education, manufacturing, construction, retail, and public services. Some also work in energy, transportation, or remote work positions, which can offer higher earning potential without requiring relocation. When evaluating salary offers near Atenville WV, it is crucial to weigh them against the area’s relatively low living costs.

Cost Of Living In Atenville WV

The cost of living in Atenville, WV is generally lower than both the national and state averages. Housing, property taxes, and daily necessities tend to be affordable, making it an appealing location for individuals and families seeking a quieter lifestyle without high urban expenses.

Approximate cost of living comparison for Atenville WV (indexed vs. US average = 100):

Cost Category Atenville WV Index Comment
Overall Cost Of Living 80 – 85 Generally below US average
Housing 60 – 70 Significantly more affordable
Groceries 90 – 95 Slightly below national average
Utilities 95 – 100 Similar to broader region
Transportation 90 – 95 Car-dependent, but reasonable fuel and insurance
Health Care 90 – 100 Access via nearby towns and cities

Because Atenville, WV is rural, most households rely on personal vehicles, so fuel and maintenance are important considerations. However, the absence of big-city expenses like paid parking, higher rent, and premium-priced services helps keep overall costs down. For many families, the lower housing and property costs in Atenville WV are the primary financial advantage.

Average Home Values And Rents In Atenville WV

Housing in and around Atenville, WV is generally very affordable, especially compared to metropolitan areas. Buyers can often secure larger lots, more privacy, and extra storage or outbuildings for a fraction of the cost of similar properties in urban markets.

Estimated housing prices and rents in the Atenville WV area:

Housing Type Estimated Price / Rent Notes
Median Single-Family Home Price $90,000 – $130,000 Varies by condition, acreage, and proximity to main roads
Entry-Level Older Homes $60,000 – $90,000 May need renovations or updates
Newer Or Updated Homes $130,000 – $180,000+ Often more modern features and finishes
Average 1-Bedroom Rent $450 – $600 per month Limited supply; may be in nearby communities
Average 2–3 Bedroom Rent $600 – $850 per month Includes small houses and mobile homes

Rentals can be less plentiful directly in Atenville, WV, so many renters look to nearby towns in Lincoln County or even commute from Huntington or other regional hubs. For buyers, the relatively low median prices in Atenville WV make homeownership achievable for many middle-income households.

To visualize the balance between salary and housing costs in Atenville, WV, consider the following simple chart of estimated monthly costs:

Expense Type Low Range (Monthly) High Range (Monthly)
Mortgage Or Rent $450 $900
Utilities (Electric, Water, Trash) $150 $250
Groceries $350 $550
Transportation (Fuel, Insurance, Maintenance) $250 $450

This overview shows that a typical household in Atenville, WV can cover its fundamental expenses on a moderate income, especially when budgets are carefully planned and housing is chosen within a comfortable price range.

Best Neighborhoods Near Atenville WV

Atenville itself is a small, rural area characterized by winding roads, wooded hills, and scattered homes rather than dense subdivisions. As a result, discussions of the “best neighborhoods” around Atenville, WV usually include nearby communities and areas within Lincoln County that residents commonly associate with daily life.

Some of the most notable residential areas and nearby communities around Atenville WV include:

Area Highlights
Atenville Area Proper Rural, quiet setting with larger lots, good for privacy and outdoor space.
Hamlin WV (County Seat) More services, shops, and schools; convenient for families and commuters.
West Hamlin WV Small-town feel with access to local businesses and community events.
Areas Along WV Route 10 Improved access to Huntington and other job centers; attractive for commuters.
Outlying Rural Sections Of Lincoln County Farm-style living, hunting, and recreational land at relatively low prices.

In evaluating the best areas near Atenville, WV, potential residents often weigh commuting time, road conditions, proximity to schools, and access to basic services like groceries and health care. Those seeking peace and space often prioritize the Atenville WV countryside itself, while families with children may prefer locations closer to schools and town centers.

Schools Serving Atenville WV

Atenville, WV is part of the Lincoln County school system. Students in the area typically attend schools located in nearby communities, depending on their grade level and exact residence. While school assignments can change based on district decisions, families generally find that class sizes are modest and that schools maintain strong community ties.

Representative schools that may serve students from the Atenville WV area include:

School Level General Notes
Local Elementary Schools In Lincoln County Elementary (K–5) Smaller student bodies, community-oriented, bus transportation from rural areas.
Lincoln County Middle Schools Middle (6–8) Serve multiple rural communities, with access to extracurricular activities.
Lincoln County High School High (9–12) Main public high school for the county, offering athletics and various programs.
Regional Vocational And Technical Programs Secondary / Adult Opportunities for trades, health care training, and career certifications.

Families considering a move to Atenville, WV should contact Lincoln County Schools or visit their official website for the most current information about attendance zones, bus routes, academic programs, and extracurricular offerings. Proximity to schools is often a key factor when choosing where to live around Atenville WV, especially for households with school-age children.

Living And Working In Atenville WV

Atenville, WV offers a distinctive blend of rural living, affordability, and access to larger job markets in nearby cities. While average salaries in the Atenville WV area are lower than in many metropolitan regions, the overall cost of living, and particularly the cost of housing, is substantially lower as well. For individuals who value open space, a close-knit community environment, and fewer urban distractions, Atenville can be an attractive option.

When weighing a move or evaluating a job offer, it is wise to consider not only wages but also housing prices, commuting distance, utility costs, and school options. By carefully comparing salary expectations with the local cost of living and average home values in Atenville WV, residents can build a lifestyle that balances financial stability with the benefits of small-town and country living.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Atenville, WV

What is the cost of living like in Atenville, WV?

The cost of living in Atenville is generally lower than the national average, especially in terms of housing and everyday expenses. Home prices and rental rates are typically more affordable compared to larger cities in West Virginia, and property taxes tend to be modest. However, residents may need to factor in costs related to commuting for work, shopping, and specialized services, as some amenities are located in nearby towns rather than directly in Atenville.

What is the community and lifestyle like in Atenville?

Atenville offers a quiet, small-community lifestyle with a strong sense of neighborliness and local connection. Many residents appreciate the slower pace, the familiarity among community members, and the rural setting surrounded by hills and forests. Social life often centers around family activities, outdoor recreation, church events, and gatherings in nearby towns. Those who value privacy, open space, and a traditional small-town atmosphere generally find Atenville appealing.

What housing options are available in Atenville, WV?

Housing in Atenville primarily consists of single-family homes, many of which are situated on larger lots or rural properties. You can find older homes with character as well as more modest, budget-friendly structures. Rental inventory can be limited due to the small size of the community, so those seeking to rent may need to search early or consider nearby towns. Prospective buyers should also account for factors such as well and septic systems, access roads, and potential maintenance on rural properties.

What should I know about transportation and commuting from Atenville?

Atenville is a rural community where personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. Public transit options are very limited or unavailable, so residents typically drive to work, school, and shopping areas in surrounding communities. Travel times will vary depending on your destination, but it is common to commute to larger nearby towns for employment, healthcare, and retail. Because of the terrain and seasonal weather, it is important to plan for driving on winding roads and potentially challenging winter conditions.

What amenities and services are available to residents of Atenville?

As a small rural community, Atenville has limited in-town amenities, and residents often rely on nearby towns for many services. Basic needs such as groceries, pharmacies, medical care, and larger retail stores are typically accessed by driving to surrounding areas in the county or region. In return, residents benefit from a quieter environment, access to outdoor activities like hiking and hunting, and a close-knit community feel. Before moving, it is wise to verify internet and cellular coverage, school district options, and distance to critical services based on your specific address.

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