Zip Code 26505
WV · Population: 38,056
About Zip Code 26505
Zip code 26505 is located in West Virginia and is home to approximately 38,056 residents. It receives an overall grade of C+ (score: 54/100), based on safety, affordability, quality of life, and employment metrics.
Crime rates here are below the national average, suggesting a relatively safe community.
Housing costs are a challenge in this area, with home values at $258,400 and median rent of $931/month against a median income of $41,817. Many residents face a significant housing cost burden.
The community is highly educated — 56.8% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher, well above the national average of ~33%.
The unemployment rate of 6.7% is above the national average, indicating a weaker local job market.
Scores are percentile-based: a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that dimension. Data is sourced from the US Census Bureau (ACS 5-year estimates) and the FBI Uniform Crime Report.
Demographics & Economics
Score Breakdown
| Dimension | Score | Grade | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | 68 | B | Lower crime = higher score |
| Affordability | 31 | D | Lower cost relative to income = higher |
| Quality of Life | 66 | B | Education, commute, ownership |
| Jobs & Economy | 49 | C | Lower unemployment = higher |
| Overall | 54 | C+ | Weighted average |
Methodology
All scores are percentile-based (0–100): a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that metric. Safety uses FBI Uniform Crime Report state-level data (Phase 2 will add zip-level granularity). Economic and demographic data is from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates (2022).