Fayette County, WV demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
39,519
-1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$53,194/yr
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
19,084
-0.3% year-over-year change

Fayette County population

How many people live in Fayette County

Fayette County is home to 39,519 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Fayette County locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
39,519
-1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
19,795
Female
49.9%
19,724
Value Percent YoY change
Male 19,795 50.1% -1.1%
Female 19,724 49.9% -1.3%
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 Fayette County is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.9% are children under 15, then 10.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23% of the population, while another 27.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.9%
15 to 24
10.3%
25 to 44
23%
45 to 64
27.3%
Over 65
22.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,680 16.9% -1.2%
15 to 24 4,088 10.3% -1.8%
25 to 44 9,077 23% -1.9%
45 to 64 10,803 27.3% -0.9%
Over 65 8,871 22.4% -0.5%
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 Fayette County, 99.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.1% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 3.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.5%
Non-citizens
0.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 39,288 99.4% -1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 193 0.5% -6.3%
Non-citizens 38 0.1% -66.1%
Racial breakdown
White
91.8%
Black or African American
4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.3%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 36,269 91.8%
Black or African American 1,641 4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 10 0%
Asian 21 0%
Two or more races 1,291 3.3%
Other 287 0.7%

Households in Fayette County

A peek inside Fayette County households

Fayette County has 15,948 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.9% are families, while the remaining 35.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,948
-1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,593
Family households
10,355
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,593 35.1% -1.8%
Family households 10,355 64.9% -0.6%
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 Fayette County

The housing landscape of Fayette County

Fayette County's housing consists of 19,084 units, with 76.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.7% 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 15.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
19,084
-0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,623 76.6%
1 unit, attached 132 0.7%
2 units 413 2.2%
3 or 4 units 123 0.6%
5 to 9 units 220 1.2%
10 to 19 units 225 1.2%
20 to 49 units 171 0.9%
50 or more units 244 1.3%
Mobile home 2,918 15.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 15 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
74
54.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fayette County

In Fayette County, the median construction year is 1972. About 19.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,722 19.5% -1.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,587 8.3% -8.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,334 12.2% 17.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,394 7.3% 1.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,958 15.5% -6.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,981 10.4% -9.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,174 11.4% 3.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,950 10.2% 4.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 910 4.8% 2.9%
Built in 2020 or later 74 0.4% 54.2%
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.

Fayette County occupancy rates

Out of the 15,948 occupied housing units in Fayette County, 77.7% are owner-occupied, while 22.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,948
-1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,561
Owner occupied
12,387
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,561 22.3% -9.0%
Owner occupied 12,387 77.7% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
16.4%
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.

Fayette County housing costs

Housing costs in Fayette County come to a median of $628 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $788.

Median housing costs per month
$628/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 Fayette County
$788/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 Fayette County

Fayette County education at a glance

About 56.1% of the population in Fayette County went to high school, while 15.3% pursued college studies. Another 10.2% earned an associate degree and 10.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 990 3.2% -11.1%
High school diploma 17,586 56.1% 0.6%
College diploma 4,792 15.3% -11.7%
Associate degree 3,187 10.2% 14.4%
Bachelor's degree 3,197 10.2% -8.2%
Graduate degree 1,592 5.1% 9.0%
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 Fayette County

How much people earn in Fayette County

The average annual household income in Fayette County was $68,298 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $53,194, reflecting a +1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fayette County
$68,298/year
4.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fayette County
$53,194/year
1.0% year-over-year change

Fayette County income by age

In Fayette County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $64,848. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $58,330 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $34,387, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,366 in earnings. Overall, 80.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $34,387 1.6%
25 - 44 $64,848 3.2%
45 - 64 $58,330 -2.2%
Over 65 $43,366 6.2%
Above poverty level
30,666
Below poverty level
7,272
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 30,666 80.8% -1.7%
Below poverty level 7,272 19.2% 1.2%

Employment in Fayette County

Workforce and job types in Fayette County

The job market in Fayette County is powered by 14,710 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.9% run their own businesses, 71.2% are employed by private companies, and 15.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,710
1.6% year-over-year change
White collar
10,841
Blue collar
3,869
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,841 73.7% 0.7%
Blue collar 3,869 26.3% 4.3%
Employer type
Self employees
5.9%
Private companies
71.2%
Governmental workers
15.9%
Not for profit companies
7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 871 5.9% 6.5%
Private companies 10,468 71.2% 0.4%
Governmental workers 2,343 15.9% -5.0%
Not for profit companies 1,028 7% 33.3%
Unemployment rate
5.6%
-22.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fayette County stands at 5.6%, 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 Fayette County

How people get around in Fayette County

In Fayette County, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 89.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
30 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 12,962 89.3% 1.9%
Taxicab 21 0.1% -8.7%
Walk 412 2.8% 3.0%
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.

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

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
25031 424 271 $40,048 $70,730
25036 159 114 $59,167 $69,822
25040 648 230 $0 $55,082
25057 138 84 $0 $27,411
25059 324 121 $105,920 $164,663
25083 439 169 $32,792 $33,691
25085 557 229 $30,945 $46,976
25090 91 55 $37,569 $36,624
25115 39 19 $0 $0

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FAQs about Fayette County demographics 

What is the total population of Fayette County?

Fayette County has a total population of 39,519 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 -1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fayette County?

The gender ratio in Fayette County is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (19,795 residents)
  • 49.9% females (19,724 residents)

What is the median age in Fayette County?

The median age in Fayette County is 44.7.

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

The age distribution in Fayette County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.9% (6,680 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.3% (4,088 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23% (9,077 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.3% (10,803 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.4% (8,871 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fayette County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fayette County is as follows:
  • White: 91.8% (36,269 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.2% (1,641 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (10 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (21 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.3% (1,291 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (287 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 99.4% of the population in Fayette County.

How many housing units are there in Fayette County?

There are 19,084 housing units in Fayette County, reflecting a -0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fayette County has a total of 15,948 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fayette County?

Fayette County has a median household income of $53,194, representing a +1.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.4% in Fayette County, with a workforce of 14,710 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.7% (10,841 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.3% (3,869 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.9% (871 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.2% (10,468 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.9% (2,343 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7% (1,028 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