Is Fairmont Safe, Pros and cons of living in Fairmont
Fairmont, West Virginia, nestled in the heart of Marion County, offers a unique blend of small-city charm and accessible amenities. Known for its historical significance in the coal industry and its role as a transportation hub, the city has evolved into a community that balances its past with a forward-looking perspective. With a population of approximately 18,221 residents, Fairmont provides a more laid-back atmosphere compared to larger urban centers, while still offering essential services and a growing economic base. Its location in North Central West Virginia positions it within reach of larger cities, yet it maintains its distinct identity.
The city’s landscape is shaped by the confluence of the Tygart Valley River and the West Fork River, which merge within Fairmont to form the Monongahela River. This geographical feature has played a role in its development and continues to offer scenic beauty to its residents. Fairmont is also recognized as the principal city of the Fairmont micropolitan area, underscoring its importance within the region. The community is home to Fairmont State University, contributing to a vibrant local culture and providing educational opportunities for a diverse student body.
Is it Safe to Live in Fairmont?
Fairmont’s crime rate is a significant consideration for potential residents. The overall crime rate in Fairmont is 24.34 per 1,000 residents annually (according to CrimeGrade.org). This figure places Fairmont at a safety level comparable to the average U.S. city, ranking it in the 49th percentile for safety. This means it is safer than 49% of cities but less safe than 51% (according to CrimeGrade.org).
When examining specific crime categories, Fairmont experiences a violent crime rate higher than the national average. Specifically, there were 94 violent crimes in Fairmont, equating to 520 per 100,000 individuals, which is 44.9% higher than the national average (according to AreaVibes). Conversely, property crimes in Fairmont are lower than the national average. The city recorded 239 property crimes, amounting to 1,323 per 100,000 residents, which is 24.8% lower than the average (according to AreaVibes).
Cost of Living in Fairmont
Housing Costs
The housing market in Fairmont presents a more affordable option compared to many areas across the United States. The median home value in Fairmont is approximately $185,554, showing a 4.3% increase over the past year (according to Zillow). This median home value is well above the West Virginia average of $134,684 (according to CommunityScale).
Rental costs in Fairmont are also notably lower than the national average. The average rent in Fairmont is around $1,100 per month (according to Realtor.com). This is 45% lower than the national average rent of $2,000 (according to Realtor.com). For a one-bedroom apartment, the average rent is approximately $669 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment averages around $1,000 per month (according to Realtor.com).
Everyday Expenses
Fairmont’s overall cost of living is significantly lower than the national average. The cost of living in Fairmont stands at 87, indicating it is 13% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes). This affordability extends to various essential expenses, making Fairmont an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Groceries, transportation, and energy costs in Fairmont are more affordable than the U.S. average (according to Economic Research Institute). For instance, food expenses are 43.4% below average, with monthly costs around $226 for an individual (according to Salary.com). Healthcare costs are also more affordable than the U.S. average (according to Economic Research Institute).
Job Market and Economy
Major Employers
Fairmont’s economy is supported by a diverse range of employers across various sectors. Key industries include Health Care & Social Assistance, Retail Trade, and Educational Services (according to Data USA). Fairmont State University and Pierpont Community and Technical College are significant institutions within the education sector, providing employment and educational opportunities.
In the healthcare sector, Fairmont Regional Medical Center is a major employer (according to Zippia). Other notable employers include MVB Bank, which offers financial services, and various retail establishments like Walmart and Kroger. Manufacturing also plays a role, with companies such as ND Paper having a presence in the area (according to Indeed.com).
Employment and Salaries
The job market in Fairmont is characterized by a variety of employment opportunities, though recent trends show a slight decline in overall employment. From 2023 to 2024, employment in Fairmont declined by approximately 0.466% (according to Data USA). The most common job groups include Office & Administrative Support, Management, and Sales & Related Occupations.
The average annual salary in Fairmont is approximately $48,493 (according to ZipRecruiter). This salary range generally falls between $33,086 (25th percentile) and $60,990 (75th percentile) annually. The unemployment rate in Fairmont was reported at 5.00% as of the latest data, which is lower than the long-term average of 6.83% (according to YCharts).
Climate in Fairmont
Temperatures
Fairmont experiences distinct seasons with a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. Summers are warm and humid, with average daily high temperatures in July reaching around 83°F (according to Weather Spark). Conversely, winters are cold, snowy, and mostly cloudy, with average daily lows in January dropping to around 26°F (according to Weather Spark).
The temperature typically varies between 24°F and 84°F over the course of the year, rarely falling below 8°F or exceeding 90°F (according to Weather Spark). The warm season generally spans from late May to mid-September, while the cold season lasts from early December to early March.
Precipitation
Fairmont receives a considerable amount of precipitation throughout the year, contributing to its lush environment. The annual precipitation averages around 47 inches (according to Livability.com). This includes both rainfall and the liquid equivalent of snow, hail, and freezing rain.
The month with the most precipitation is typically May, with an average of 3.6 inches (according to Weather Spark). January tends to be the driest month, receiving an average of 1.9 inches of precipitation. Snowfall is common during the winter months, with an average annual snowfall of 26 inches (according to myPerfectWeather).
Education and Demographics
School Ratings
Fairmont offers a range of educational opportunities, with public schools generally considered above average. Niche.com ranks Fairmont among the top places for having the best public schools in West Virginia, placing it at #31 out of 120 locations (according to Niche.com).
The city is home to Fairmont State University and Pierpont Community and Technical College, both of which contribute significantly to the educational landscape. Fairmont State University serves over 3,000 students, offering a variety of programs. Pierpont Community and Technical College also awards associate degrees in high-demand fields.
Population and Diversity
Fairmont has a population of approximately 18,221 residents (according to Point2Homes). The median age in Fairmont is 34.9 years, with a relatively balanced distribution across age groups (according to World Population Review). The population is predominantly White, making up about 84.55% of residents, with smaller percentages identifying as Black or African American, and other racial groups (according to World Population Review).
The city has a high percentage of U.S. citizens, with 98.8% of residents being citizens as of 2024 (according to Data USA). The foreign-born population is relatively small, at 1.49% of residents (according to Data USA).