Braxton County, West Virginia Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Braxton County is located in West Virginia with a total population of 12,345. It is the 41st most populous county out of 55 in West Virginia.

Age Demographics

The median age in Braxton County is 46.7 years. This is 9% higher than the state median of 42.7 years. 10.3% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Braxton County is $44,449. This is 23% lower than the state median of $57,917. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 43% lower. The poverty rate stands at 18.8%. This is 13% higher than the state poverty rate of 16.6%. The unemployment rate is 12.8%. This is 123% higher than the state rate of 5.7%. The median home value is $106,400. Housing costs are 32% lower than the state median of $155,600. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.4x, Braxton County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 79.3% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 7% higher than the state average of 74.3%.

Race & Ethnicity

Braxton County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 87.0% of all residents. Black or African American residents account for 0.9%. The Black or African American population (0.9%) is well below the state average of 3.2%. The Hispanic or Latino population (0.8%) is well below the state average of 2.0%. The Asian population (0.1%) is well below the state average of 0.8%.

Education

11.9% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is among the lowest rates in the state, which may correlate with employment and income patterns. This is 49% lower than the state rate of 23.3%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 83.7%.