Side-by-side comparison of home prices, mortgage payments, and housing costs between Bridgeport and Fairmont, West Virginia. Using West Virginia's 0.58% property tax rate and $1,400/year insurance. Updated for 2026.
Fairmont is significantly more affordable than Bridgeport, with homes priced 53% lower on average. That translates to $982/month in savings on your total housing payment. For budget-conscious buyers in West Virginia, Fairmont offers a much more accessible path to homeownership.
Estimated PITI payments assuming 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed mortgage with PMI. Uses West Virginia's 0.58% property tax rate.
Buying in Fairmont saves you approximately $982/month ($11,784/year) compared to Bridgeport, based on median home prices with identical loan terms.
Fairmont is the better choice for first-time buyers, with a median price of $135K versus $285K in Bridgeport. That's $150K less to save for a down payment. You'd need roughly $5K for an FHA 3.5% down payment in Fairmont, compared to $10K in Bridgeport. West Virginia offers the WVHDF Homeownership Program program (Up to $7,500 DPA) which applies in both cities.
Fairmont has the better price-to-rent ratio at 14.4x versus 21.2x in Bridgeport. A lower ratio generally signals better rental income relative to purchase price. Average rent in Fairmont is $780/month on a $135K median home, making it a stronger candidate for buy-and-rent investors.
Fairmont (pop. 18,766) offers more amenities, schools, and services typical of a larger city, while Bridgeport (pop. 9,270) may offer a quieter, more community-oriented lifestyle. Fairmont offers both more options and lower housing costs, making it attractive for families who want urban amenities without a premium price.