Is Wheeling a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Wheeling receives an overall livability score of 3.3 out of 5.0, earning a grade of B. Key strengths include low unemployment, affordable housing, abundant sunshine. Areas to be aware of include an elevated poverty rate, below-average incomes, long commute times. Wheeling offers a solid quality of life with a good balance of affordability, safety, and opportunity.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Wheeling is $41,000, 45% below the national average of $75,149. The job market is very strong with unemployment at just 2.8%. The poverty rate of 17.6% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 37 minutes, longer than the typical American commute of 28 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Wheeling is $71,900, 74% below the national median — offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $810 per month, below the national average — a plus for affordability. At just 1.8x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Education
10.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 90.6% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.5/10.
Climate & Weather
With 297 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 41.