Mathews County, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,540
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$75,880/yr
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,493
0.1% year-over-year change

Mathews County population

How many people live in Mathews County

Mathews County is home to 8,540 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Mathews County locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
8,540
0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
4,235
Female
50.4%
4,305
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,235 49.6% 0.6%
Female 4,305 50.4% -0.1%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Mathews County is 55, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.8% are children under 15, then 9.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 16.2% of the population, while another 28.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 33.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
55
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.8%
15 to 24
9.9%
25 to 44
16.2%
45 to 64
28.8%
Over 65
33.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,009 11.8% 1.6%
15 to 24 844 9.9% -14.5%
25 to 44 1,382 16.2% 6.0%
45 to 64 2,460 28.8% -0.9%
Over 65 2,845 33.3% 3.5%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Mathews County, 97.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.3% of residents are non-citizens. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
0.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,335 97.6% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 178 2.1% -19.8%
Non-citizens 27 0.3% 170.0%
Racial breakdown
White
85.8%
Black or African American
9.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
3%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 7,326 85.8%
Black or African American 825 9.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 7 0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 6 0.1%
Two or more races 256 3%
Other 120 1.4%

Households in Mathews County

A peek inside Mathews County households

Mathews County has 3,987 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.7% are families, while the remaining 42.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,987
5.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,686
Family households
2,301
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,686 42.3% 19.5%
Family households 2,301 57.7% -2.3%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Mathews County

The housing landscape of Mathews County

Mathews County's housing consists of 5,493 units, with 91% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 4.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,493
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,001 91%
1 unit, attached 32 0.6%
2 units 80 1.5%
3 or 4 units 28 0.5%
5 to 9 units 80 1.5%
20 to 49 units 5 0.1%
Mobile home 267 4.9%
Homes built since 2020
38
40.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Mathews County

In Mathews County, the median construction year is 1976. About 17.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 945 17.2% -24.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 226 4.1% -4.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 548 10% 6.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 557 10.1% 14.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 799 14.6% 3.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 671 12.2% 5.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 904 16.5% -6.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 657 12% 45.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 148 2.7% 5.0%
Built in 2020 or later 38 0.7% 40.7%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Mathews County occupancy rates

Out of the 3,987 occupied housing units in Mathews County, 84% are owner-occupied, while 16% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 27.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,987
5.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
636
Owner occupied
3,351
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 636 16% 17.3%
Owner occupied 3,351 84% 3.9%
Unoccupied housing units
27.4%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Mathews County housing costs

Housing costs in Mathews County come to a median of $892 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,032.

Median housing costs per month
$892/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Mathews County
$1,032/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Mathews County

Mathews County education at a glance

About 40.2% of the population in Mathews County went to high school, while 23.6% pursued college studies. Another 7% earned an associate degree and 19.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 172 2.4% 37.6%
High school diploma 2,938 40.2% 0.6%
College diploma 1,729 23.6% 15.1%
Associate degree 511 7% -15.4%
Bachelor's degree 1,398 19.1% -5.9%
Graduate degree 563 7.7% 2.4%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Mathews County

How much people earn in Mathews County

The average annual household income in Mathews County was $99,796 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $75,880, reflecting a +0.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Mathews County
$99,796/year
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Mathews County
$75,880/year
0.5% year-over-year change

Mathews County income by age

In Mathews County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $78,182. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $86,712 overall. Overall, 92.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $78,182 12.3%
45 - 64 $86,712 -10.4%
Over 65 $61,165 3.3%
Above poverty level
7,802
Below poverty level
629
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,802 92.5% 0.5%
Below poverty level 629 7.5% 4.0%

Employment in Mathews County

Workforce and job types in Mathews County

The job market in Mathews County is powered by 3,458 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 15.8% run their own businesses, 58.3% are employed by private companies, and 19% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,458
0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
2,541
Blue collar
917
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,541 73.5% -3.0%
Blue collar 917 26.5% 11.3%
Employer type
Self employees
15.8%
Private companies
58.3%
Governmental workers
19%
Not for profit companies
6.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 545 15.8% -3.9%
Private companies 2,017 58.3% 4.6%
Governmental workers 657 19% 3.3%
Not for profit companies 239 6.9% -23.9%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
-26.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Mathews County stands at 4.4%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Mathews County

How people get around in Mathews County

Commuting methods vary: 77.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,628 77.8% -2.1%
Taxicab 22 0.6% 120.0%
Bus or trolleybus 34 1% 47.8%
Subway or elevated 5 0.2% N/A
Walk 88 2.6% 3.5%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Mathews County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
23021 19 8 $0 $0
23025 686 375 $71,563 $73,848
23035 1,495 727 $68,438 $102,685
23045 25 14 $0 $0
23050 437 243 $39,439 $62,995
23056 175 60 $79,205 $107,432
23066 514 230 $84,375 $97,517
23068 333 209 $115,733 $94,331
23076 552 284 $106,367 $140,452

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FAQs about Mathews County demographics 

What is the total population of Mathews County?

Mathews County has a total population of 8,540 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Mathews County?

The gender ratio in Mathews County is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (4,235 residents)
  • 50.4% females (4,305 residents)

What is the median age in Mathews County?

The median age in Mathews County is 55.

What is the age distribution of the population in Mathews County?

The age distribution in Mathews County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.8% (1,009 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 9.9% (844 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 16.2% (1,382 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.8% (2,460 residents)
  • Over 65: 33.3% (2,845 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Mathews County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Mathews County is as follows:
  • White: 85.8% (7,326 residents)
  • Black or African American: 9.7% (825 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (7 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (6 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3% (256 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (120 residents)

What percentage of the population in Mathews County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.6% of the population in Mathews County.

How many housing units are there in Mathews County?

There are 5,493 housing units in Mathews County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Mathews County and what is the average household size?

Mathews County has a total of 3,987 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Mathews County?

Mathews County has a median household income of $75,880, representing a +0.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Mathews County?

The employment rate is 95.6% in Mathews County, with a workforce of 3,458 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.5% (2,541 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.5% (917 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 15.8% (545 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.3% (2,017 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19% (657 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.9% (239 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025