West Virginia Demographics & Population 2026

Population Overview

West Virginia has a total population of 1,784,462, making it a smaller state in the nation. The median age is 42.7 years, 10% higher the national median of 38.7 years.

Age Demographics

The median age in West Virginia is 42.7 years. This is 10% higher than the state median of 38.7 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in West Virginia is $57,917. This is 26% lower than the state median of $78,538. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 26% lower. The poverty rate stands at 16.6%. This is 34% higher than the state poverty rate of 12.4%. The unemployment rate is 5.7%. This is 10% higher than the state rate of 5.2%. The median home value is $155,600. Housing costs are 49% lower than the state median of $303,400. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.7x, West Virginia is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 74.3% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 14% higher than the state average of 65.0%.

Race & Ethnicity

West Virginia has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 90.2% of all residents. Black or African American residents account for 3.2%. The White (non-Hispanic) population is significantly higher than the state average (90.2% vs 58.2%). The Black or African American population (3.2%) is well below the state average of 12.0%. The Hispanic or Latino population (2.0%) is well below the state average of 19.0%. The Asian population (0.8%) is well below the state average of 5.8%.

Education

23.3% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 33% lower than the state rate of 35.0%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 88.6%.