Cheat Lake, WV demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
10,902
4.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$117,014/yr
5.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,758
4.5% year-over-year change

Cheat Lake population

How many people live in Cheat Lake

Cheat Lake is home to 10,902 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of Cheat Lake locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
10,902
4.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
5,471
Female
49.8%
5,431
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,471 50.2% 7.4%
Female 5,431 49.8% 0.8%
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 Cheat Lake is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.5% are children under 15, then 6.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.6% of the population, while another 26% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.5%
15 to 24
6.6%
25 to 44
29.6%
45 to 64
26%
Over 65
17.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,233 20.5% 7.0%
15 to 24 723 6.6% -9.4%
25 to 44 3,226 29.6% 7.8%
45 to 64 2,833 26% 1.4%
Over 65 1,887 17.3% 4.2%
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 Cheat Lake, 93.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.4% of locals are Caucasian, 3.4% are African American and 1.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.4%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,214 93.7% 3.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 586 5.4% 11.8%
Non-citizens 102 0.9% 9.7%
Racial breakdown
White
89.4%
Black or African American
3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
1.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.7%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 9,746 89.4%
Black or African American 366 3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 19 0.2%
Asian 211 1.9%
Two or more races 405 3.7%
Other 155 1.4%

Households in Cheat Lake

A peek inside Cheat Lake households

Cheat Lake has 4,423 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67% are families, while the remaining 33% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,423
3.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,458
Family households
2,965
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,458 33% 10.1%
Family households 2,965 67% 1.1%
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 Cheat Lake

The housing landscape of Cheat Lake

Cheat Lake's housing consists of 4,758 units, with 69.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 14.4% 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 5.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,758
4.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,311 69.6%
1 unit, attached 685 14.4%
2 units 31 0.6%
3 or 4 units 108 2.3%
5 to 9 units 291 6.1%
10 to 19 units 12 0.2%
20 to 49 units 20 0.4%
50 or more units 57 1.2%
Mobile home 243 5.1%
Homes built since 2020
318
181.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cheat Lake

In Cheat Lake, the median construction year is 1994. About 5.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 14% between 2010 and 2019, and 6.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 250 5.2% -10.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 169 3.6% 3.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 129 2.7% 15.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 178 3.7% 13.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 507 10.7% 21.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 832 17.5% 1.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 865 18.2% -9.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 846 17.8% 1.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 664 14% -6.2%
Built in 2020 or later 318 6.7% 181.4%
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.

Cheat Lake occupancy rates

Out of the 4,423 occupied housing units in Cheat Lake, 83.2% are owner-occupied, while 16.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,423
3.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
745
Owner occupied
3,678
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 745 16.8% -11.7%
Owner occupied 3,678 83.2% 7.8%
Unoccupied housing units
7.0%
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.

Cheat Lake housing costs

Housing costs in Cheat Lake come to a median of $1,364 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,124.

Median housing costs per month
$1,364/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 Cheat Lake
$1,124/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 Cheat Lake

Cheat Lake education at a glance

About 20.9% of the population in Cheat Lake went to high school, while 14.1% pursued college studies. Another 4.2% earned an associate degree and 20.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 39.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 34 0.4% -26.1%
High school diploma 1,750 20.9% 1.0%
College diploma 1,179 14.1% -10.8%
Associate degree 349 4.2% 1.2%
Bachelor's degree 1,742 20.8% -2.0%
Graduate degree 3,327 39.7% 18.8%
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 Cheat Lake

How much people earn in Cheat Lake

The average annual household income in Cheat Lake was $164,973 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $117,014, reflecting a +5.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cheat Lake
$164,973/year
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cheat Lake
$117,014/year
5.1% year-over-year change

Cheat Lake income by age

In Cheat Lake, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $131,594. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $159,000 overall. Overall, 93.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $131,594 16.9%
45 - 64 $159,000 7.9%
Over 65 $72,083 10.2%
Above poverty level
10,082
Below poverty level
710
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 10,082 93.4% 3.0%
Below poverty level 710 6.6% 24.8%

Average renter income in Cheat Lake

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Cheat Lake, their median household income was $66,944 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 20.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$66,944
Rent-to-income ratio
20.1%
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 Cheat Lake

Workforce and job types in Cheat Lake

The job market in Cheat Lake is powered by 5,955 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 88.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 11.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.7% run their own businesses, 58.1% are employed by private companies, and 21.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,955
4.7% year-over-year change
White collar
5,265
Blue collar
690
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,265 88.4% 1.4%
Blue collar 690 11.6% 38.3%
Employer type
Self employees
9.7%
Private companies
58.1%
Governmental workers
21.7%
Not for profit companies
10.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 575 9.7% -2.2%
Private companies 3,462 58.1% 7.3%
Governmental workers 1,292 21.7% 2.5%
Not for profit companies 626 10.5% 1.8%
Unemployment rate
2.2%
17.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cheat Lake stands at 2.2%, 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 Cheat Lake

How people get around in Cheat Lake

Commuting methods vary: 85% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.1% 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 4,983 85% 1.5%
Walk 6 0.1% 50.0%
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.

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FAQs about Cheat Lake demographics 

What is the total population of Cheat Lake?

Cheat Lake has a total population of 10,902 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 +4.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cheat Lake?

The gender ratio in Cheat Lake is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (5,471 residents)
  • 49.8% females (5,431 residents)

What is the median age in Cheat Lake?

The median age in Cheat Lake is 40.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Cheat Lake?

The age distribution in Cheat Lake is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.5% (2,233 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 6.6% (723 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.6% (3,226 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26% (2,833 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.3% (1,887 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cheat Lake?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cheat Lake is as follows:
  • White: 89.4% (9,746 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.4% (366 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (19 residents)
  • Asian: 1.9% (211 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.7% (405 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (155 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.7% of the population in Cheat Lake.

How many housing units are there in Cheat Lake?

There are 4,758 housing units in Cheat Lake, reflecting a +4.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Cheat Lake has a total of 4,423 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cheat Lake?

Cheat Lake has a median household income of $117,014, representing a +5.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Cheat Lake?

The employment rate is 97.8% in Cheat Lake, with a workforce of 5,955 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 88.4% (5,265 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 11.6% (690 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.7% (575 residents)
  • Private companies: 58.1% (3,462 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.7% (1,292 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.5% (626 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