Beckley, WV demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,818
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$45,826/yr
14.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,628
-2.2% year-over-year change

Beckley population

How many people live in Beckley

Beckley is home to 16,818 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Beckley locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
16,818
-0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
8,201
Female
51.2%
8,617
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,201 48.8% -0.9%
Female 8,617 51.2% -1.0%
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 Beckley is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.7% are children under 15, then 14.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.7% of the population, while another 23.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.7%
15 to 24
14.5%
25 to 44
21.7%
45 to 64
23.9%
Over 65
21.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,148 18.7% -3.1%
15 to 24 2,444 14.5% 5.2%
25 to 44 3,649 21.7% -12.0%
45 to 64 4,020 23.9% 12.7%
Over 65 3,557 21.2% -3.6%
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 Beckley, 96.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 71.1% of locals are Caucasian, 16.4% are African American and 2.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.9%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,186 96.2% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 495 2.9% -1.2%
Non-citizens 137 0.8% -14.9%
Racial breakdown
White
71.1%
Black or African American
16.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
8.6%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 11,953 71.1%
Black or African American 2,767 16.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3 0%
Asian 446 2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 25 0.2%
Two or more races 1,452 8.6%
Other 172 1%

Households in Beckley

A peek inside Beckley households

Beckley has 7,050 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.1% are families, while the remaining 42.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,050
-2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,027
Family households
4,023
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,027 42.9% -4.4%
Family households 4,023 57.1% -0.5%
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 Beckley

The housing landscape of Beckley

Beckley's housing consists of 8,628 units, with 74.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.7% 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 0.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,628
-2.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,402 74.2%
1 unit, attached 316 3.7%
2 units 141 1.6%
3 or 4 units 263 3%
5 to 9 units 340 3.9%
10 to 19 units 377 4.4%
20 to 49 units 201 2.3%
50 or more units 526 6.1%
Mobile home 43 0.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 19 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Beckley

In Beckley, the median construction year is 1960. About 16.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 15.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,394 16.2% 11.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,320 15.3% -23.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,570 18.2% -14.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 649 7.5% -28.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,596 18.5% 13.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,062 12.3% 20.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 397 4.6% 22.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 440 5.1% 18.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 200 2.3% 49.2%
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.

Beckley occupancy rates

Out of the 7,050 occupied housing units in Beckley, 55.4% are owner-occupied, while 44.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 18.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,050
-2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,143
Owner occupied
3,907
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,143 44.6% -6.8%
Owner occupied 3,907 55.4% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
18.3%
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.

Beckley housing costs

Housing costs in Beckley come to a median of $793 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $869.

Median housing costs per month
$793/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 Beckley
$869/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 Beckley

Beckley education at a glance

About 38.6% of the population in Beckley went to high school, while 26% pursued college studies. Another 7.4% earned an associate degree and 15.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 220 1.7% -28.1%
High school diploma 4,977 38.6% -3.7%
College diploma 3,346 26% -2.8%
Associate degree 947 7.4% -2.9%
Bachelor's degree 1,991 15.5% 6.8%
Graduate degree 1,395 10.8% 16.4%
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 Beckley

How much people earn in Beckley

The average annual household income in Beckley was $71,816 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $45,826, reflecting a +14.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Beckley
$71,816/year
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Beckley
$45,826/year
14.7% year-over-year change

Beckley income by age

In Beckley, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $52,500. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $49,139 overall. Overall, 71.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $52,500 12.9%
45 - 64 $49,139 29.0%
Over 65 $41,188 2.6%
Above poverty level
11,197
Below poverty level
4,557
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,197 71.1% -4.0%
Below poverty level 4,557 28.9% 6.6%

Average renter income in Beckley

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Beckley, their median household income was $22,304 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 46.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$22,304
Rent-to-income ratio
46.8%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Beckley

Workforce and job types in Beckley

The job market in Beckley is powered by 6,515 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.5% run their own businesses, 61.3% are employed by private companies, and 21% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,515
-1.8% year-over-year change
White collar
5,431
Blue collar
1,084
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,431 83.4% -3.1%
Blue collar 1,084 16.6% 5.7%
Employer type
Self employees
8.5%
Private companies
61.3%
Governmental workers
21%
Not for profit companies
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 551 8.5% -14.2%
Private companies 3,995 61.3% -5.1%
Governmental workers 1,367 21% 12.7%
Not for profit companies 602 9.2% 6.0%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
17.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Beckley stands at 3.2%, 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 Beckley

How people get around in Beckley

In Beckley, the average commute time is 16 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.7% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
16 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,318 84.2% -7.4%
Taxicab 138 2.2% 70.4%
Bus or trolleybus 22 0.4% 450.0%
Bicycle 11 0.2% 22.2%
Walk 171 2.7% 6.9%
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 Beckley by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
25801 31,128 12,474 $56,836 $72,216

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FAQs about Beckley demographics 

What is the total population of Beckley?

Beckley has a total population of 16,818 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 -0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Beckley?

The gender ratio in Beckley is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (8,201 residents)
  • 51.2% females (8,617 residents)

What is the median age in Beckley?

The median age in Beckley is 42.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Beckley?

The age distribution in Beckley is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.7% (3,148 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.5% (2,444 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.7% (3,649 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.9% (4,020 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.2% (3,557 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Beckley?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Beckley is as follows:
  • White: 71.1% (11,953 residents)
  • Black or African American: 16.4% (2,767 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (3 residents)
  • Asian: 2.6% (446 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (25 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.6% (1,452 residents)
  • Other: 1% (172 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.2% of the population in Beckley.

How many housing units are there in Beckley?

There are 8,628 housing units in Beckley, reflecting a -2.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Beckley has a total of 7,050 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Beckley?

Beckley has a median household income of $45,826, representing a +14.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Beckley?

The employment rate is 96.8% in Beckley, with a workforce of 6,515 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.4% (5,431 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.6% (1,084 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.5% (551 residents)
  • Private companies: 61.3% (3,995 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21% (1,367 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.2% (602 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