Zip Code 26542
WV · Population: 2,039
About Zip Code 26542
Zip code 26542 is located in West Virginia and is home to approximately 2,039 residents. It receives an overall grade of B (score: 66/100), based on safety, affordability, quality of life, and employment metrics.
Crime rates here are below the national average, suggesting a relatively safe community.
The median household income here is $54,924, with home values near $141,500 and rents around $1,063/month. Affordability is moderate compared to the rest of the country.
Educational attainment is below the national average, with 21.4% of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
Unemployment stands at 3.6%, which is near the national average.
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 | 73 | B+ | Lower crime = higher score |
| Affordability | 48 | C | Lower cost relative to income = higher |
| Quality of Life | 66 | B | Education, commute, ownership |
| Jobs & Economy | 76 | B+ | Lower unemployment = higher |
| Overall | 66 | B | 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).