Buckhannon, WV demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,116
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,615/yr
12.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,255
1.7% year-over-year change

Buckhannon population

How many people live in Buckhannon

Buckhannon is home to 5,116 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.4% of Buckhannon locals are male, and 49.6% are female.

Total population
5,116
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.4%
2,576
Female
49.6%
2,540
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,576 50.4% 3.5%
Female 2,540 49.6% -4.3%
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 Buckhannon is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.1% are children under 15, then 29.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.1% of the population, while another 19.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.1%
15 to 24
29.8%
25 to 44
25.1%
45 to 64
19.1%
Over 65
14%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 619 12.1% -9.9%
15 to 24 1,522 29.8% -2.1%
25 to 44 1,283 25.1% 10.7%
45 to 64 975 19.1% -5.8%
Over 65 717 14% 1.1%
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 Buckhannon, 96.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 87.2% of locals are Caucasian, 4.8% are African American and 1.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.5%
Non-citizens
2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,938 96.5% -1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 76 1.5% 1.3%
Non-citizens 102 2% 52.2%
Racial breakdown
White
87.2%
Black or African American
4.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
5.7%
Other
0.3%
Value Percent
White 4,461 87.2%
Black or African American 247 4.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 10 0.2%
Asian 88 1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 5 0.1%
Two or more races 291 5.7%
Other 14 0.3%

Households in Buckhannon

A peek inside Buckhannon households

Buckhannon has 1,902 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.4% are families, while the remaining 46.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,902
-1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
886
Family households
1,016
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 886 46.6% -3.5%
Family households 1,016 53.4% 1.2%
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 Buckhannon

The housing landscape of Buckhannon

Buckhannon's housing consists of 2,255 units, with 80.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% 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 0.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,255
1.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,821 80.8%
1 unit, attached 27 1.2%
2 units 56 2.5%
3 or 4 units 137 6.1%
5 to 9 units 45 2%
10 to 19 units 16 0.7%
50 or more units 137 6.1%
Mobile home 16 0.7%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Buckhannon

In Buckhannon, the median construction year is 1956. About 32.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8% 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 728 32.3% -3.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 181 8% 4.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 346 15.3% -3.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 307 13.6% 2.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 333 14.8% 6.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 234 10.4% 8.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 38 1.7% 31.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 42 1.9% 61.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 46 2% -9.8%
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.

Buckhannon occupancy rates

Out of the 1,902 occupied housing units in Buckhannon, 62.7% are owner-occupied, while 37.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,902
-1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
709
Owner occupied
1,193
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 709 37.3% -1.9%
Owner occupied 1,193 62.7% -0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
15.7%
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.

Buckhannon housing costs

Housing costs in Buckhannon come to a median of $890 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $885.

Median housing costs per month
$890/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 Buckhannon
$885/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 Buckhannon

Buckhannon education at a glance

About 45.8% of the population in Buckhannon went to high school, while 28.7% pursued college studies. Another 6.6% earned an associate degree and 12.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 40 0.9% 0.0%
High school diploma 2,010 45.8% -7.8%
College diploma 1,258 28.7% 8.1%
Associate degree 291 6.6% 16.9%
Bachelor's degree 539 12.3% 28.6%
Graduate degree 251 5.7% -2.7%
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 Buckhannon

How much people earn in Buckhannon

The average annual household income in Buckhannon was $74,599 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +16.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,615, reflecting a +12.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Buckhannon
$74,599/year
16.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Buckhannon
$54,615/year
12.1% year-over-year change

Buckhannon income by age

In Buckhannon, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $73,118. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $30,962 overall. Overall, 78.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $73,118 4.9%
45 - 64 $30,962 -0.9%
Over 65 $54,722 51.0%
Above poverty level
3,033
Below poverty level
847
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,033 78.2% 2.0%
Below poverty level 847 21.8% -13.0%

Average renter income in Buckhannon

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Buckhannon, their median household income was $29,940 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$29,940
Rent-to-income ratio
35.5%
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 Buckhannon

Workforce and job types in Buckhannon

The job market in Buckhannon is powered by 1,963 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.5% run their own businesses, 65% are employed by private companies, and 17.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,963
3.6% year-over-year change
White collar
1,601
Blue collar
362
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,601 81.6% 9.6%
Blue collar 362 18.4% -16.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8.5%
Private companies
65%
Governmental workers
17.9%
Not for profit companies
8.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 167 8.5% -39.3%
Private companies 1,276 65% 8.9%
Governmental workers 352 17.9% 21.8%
Not for profit companies 168 8.6% 5.7%
Unemployment rate
4.7%
-23.8% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Buckhannon stands at 4.7%, 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 Buckhannon

How people get around in Buckhannon

Commuting methods vary: 70% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 12.5% 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 1,328 70% 10.7%
Walk 238 12.5% -1.6%
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 Buckhannon by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
26201 18,689 7,646 $53,832 $72,153

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FAQs about Buckhannon demographics 

What is the total population of Buckhannon?

Buckhannon has a total population of 5,116 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Buckhannon?

The gender ratio in Buckhannon is as follows:
  • 50.4% males (2,576 residents)
  • 49.6% females (2,540 residents)

What is the median age in Buckhannon?

The median age in Buckhannon is 32.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Buckhannon?

The age distribution in Buckhannon is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.1% (619 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 29.8% (1,522 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.1% (1,283 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19.1% (975 residents)
  • Over 65: 14% (717 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Buckhannon?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Buckhannon is as follows:
  • White: 87.2% (4,461 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.8% (247 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (10 residents)
  • Asian: 1.7% (88 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (5 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.7% (291 residents)
  • Other: 0.3% (14 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.5% of the population in Buckhannon.

How many housing units are there in Buckhannon?

There are 2,255 housing units in Buckhannon, reflecting a +1.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Buckhannon has a total of 1,902 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Buckhannon?

Buckhannon has a median household income of $54,615, representing a +12.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.3% in Buckhannon, with a workforce of 1,963 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.6% (1,601 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.4% (362 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.5% (167 residents)
  • Private companies: 65% (1,276 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.9% (352 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.6% (168 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