Monroe County, West Virginia Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Monroe County is located in West Virginia with a total population of 12,401. It is the 40th most populous county out of 55 in West Virginia.

Age Demographics

The median age in Monroe County is 46.7 years. This is 9% higher than the state median of 42.7 years. 10.7% 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 Monroe County is $54,508. This is 6% lower than the state median of $57,917. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 31% lower. The poverty rate stands at 15.7%. This is 6% lower than the state poverty rate of 16.6%. The unemployment rate is 10.0%. This is 74% higher than the state rate of 5.7%. The median home value is $146,100. Housing costs are 6% lower than the state median of $155,600. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.7x, Monroe County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 82.6% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 11% higher than the state average of 74.3%.

Race & Ethnicity

Monroe County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 95.6% of all residents. Black or African American residents account for 1.3%. The Black or African American population (1.3%) 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%.

Education

15.4% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 34% 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 87.9%.