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

Total population
7,288
-1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$47,981/yr
-5.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,117
-0.0% year-over-year change

Gilmer County population

How many people live in Gilmer County

Gilmer County is home to 7,288 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 59% of Gilmer County locals are male, and 41% are female.

Total population
7,288
-1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
59%
4,303
Female
41%
2,985
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,303 59% -2.9%
Female 2,985 41% 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 Gilmer County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.3% are children under 15, then 14.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.2% of the population, while another 26.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.3%
15 to 24
14.4%
25 to 44
28.2%
45 to 64
26.9%
Over 65
18.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 895 12.3% -8.9%
15 to 24 1,050 14.4% 0.0%
25 to 44 2,054 28.2% -0.4%
45 to 64 1,961 26.9% -0.3%
Over 65 1,328 18.2% 1.0%
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 Gilmer County, 95.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 81.2% of locals are Caucasian, 13.8% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.5%
Non-citizens
3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,958 95.5% -1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 111 1.5% 13.3%
Non-citizens 219 3% -11.3%
Racial breakdown
White
81.2%
Black or African American
13.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.4%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 5,915 81.2%
Black or African American 1,008 13.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 9 0.1%
Asian 16 0.2%
Two or more races 246 3.4%
Other 94 1.3%

Households in Gilmer County

A peek inside Gilmer County households

Gilmer County has 2,254 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63% are families, while the remaining 37% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,254
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
833
Family households
1,421
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 833 37% 15.1%
Family households 1,421 63% -5.5%
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 Gilmer County

The housing landscape of Gilmer County

Gilmer County's housing consists of 3,117 units, with 70% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.1% 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 25.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,117
-0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,182 70%
1 unit, attached 3 0.1%
2 units 23 0.7%
3 or 4 units 31 1%
5 to 9 units 61 2%
10 to 19 units 3 0.1%
20 to 49 units 3 0.1%
Mobile home 791 25.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 20 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Gilmer County

In Gilmer County, the median construction year is 1974. About 21.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.8% 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 677 21.7% 11.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 213 6.8% -26.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 215 6.9% -10.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 210 6.7% 15.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 628 20.2% 5.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 571 18.3% -9.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 126 4% -31.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 299 9.6% 58.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 178 5.7% -12.8%
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.

Gilmer County occupancy rates

Out of the 2,254 occupied housing units in Gilmer County, 75.6% are owner-occupied, while 24.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 27.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,254
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
549
Owner occupied
1,705
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 549 24.4% 4.6%
Owner occupied 1,705 75.6% 0.1%
Unoccupied housing units
27.7%
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.

Gilmer County housing costs

Housing costs in Gilmer County come to a median of $426 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $750.

Median housing costs per month
$426/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 Gilmer County
$750/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 Gilmer County

Gilmer County education at a glance

About 55.3% of the population in Gilmer County went to high school, while 18.9% pursued college studies. Another 4% earned an associate degree and 12.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 257 4.1% -14.1%
High school diploma 3,430 55.3% -1.3%
College diploma 1,170 18.9% 8.6%
Associate degree 250 4% 24.4%
Bachelor's degree 765 12.3% 13.0%
Graduate degree 333 5.4% -30.8%
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 Gilmer County

How much people earn in Gilmer County

The average annual household income in Gilmer County was $59,427 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -4.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $47,981, reflecting a -5.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Gilmer County
$59,427/year
-4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Gilmer County
$47,981/year
-5.9% year-over-year change

Gilmer County income by age

In Gilmer County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,458. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $51,111 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $25,179, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $28,988 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 $25,179 N/A
25 - 44 $62,458 1.4%
45 - 64 $51,111 -6.5%
Over 65 $28,988 -29.9%
Above poverty level
4,077
Below poverty level
967
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,077 80.8% -10.6%
Below poverty level 967 19.2% 41.4%

Employment in Gilmer County

Workforce and job types in Gilmer County

The job market in Gilmer County is powered by 2,059 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 1.6% run their own businesses, 60.8% are employed by private companies, and 31.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,059
-2.3% year-over-year change
White collar
1,605
Blue collar
454
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,605 78% 1.7%
Blue collar 454 22% -14.3%
Employer type
Self employees
1.6%
Private companies
60.8%
Governmental workers
31.5%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 32 1.6% -54.3%
Private companies 1,252 60.8% 5.0%
Governmental workers 648 31.5% -6.8%
Not for profit companies 127 6.2% -15.3%
Unemployment rate
6.8%
-19.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Gilmer County stands at 6.8%, 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 Gilmer County

How people get around in Gilmer County

In Gilmer County, the average commute time is 32 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
32 min
-3.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,691 86.5% -5.0%
Motorcycle 4 0.2% -50.0%
Walk 101 5.2% -12.9%
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 Gilmer County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
26335 1,149 477 $51,513 $62,639
26342 483 217 $31,192 $52,911
26351 4,440 995 $55,742 $69,856
26611 69 45 $0 $41,264
26137 818 331 $26,098 $34,124
25267 731 347 $0 $49,709
26384 201 103 $0 $30,459
26412 767 277 $0 $62,058
26430 216 116 $47,903 $44,400
26443 450 137 $61,953 $67,945

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FAQs about Gilmer County demographics 

What is the total population of Gilmer County?

Gilmer County has a total population of 7,288 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 Gilmer County?

The gender ratio in Gilmer County is as follows:
  • 59% males (4,303 residents)
  • 41% females (2,985 residents)

What is the median age in Gilmer County?

The median age in Gilmer County is 41.5.

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

The age distribution in Gilmer County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.3% (895 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.4% (1,050 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.2% (2,054 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.9% (1,961 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.2% (1,328 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Gilmer County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Gilmer County is as follows:
  • White: 81.2% (5,915 residents)
  • Black or African American: 13.8% (1,008 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (9 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (16 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.4% (246 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (94 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.5% of the population in Gilmer County.

How many housing units are there in Gilmer County?

There are 3,117 housing units in Gilmer County, reflecting a -0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Gilmer County has a total of 2,254 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Gilmer County?

Gilmer County has a median household income of $47,981, representing a -5.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.2% in Gilmer County, with a workforce of 2,059 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78% (1,605 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22% (454 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 1.6% (32 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.8% (1,252 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 31.5% (648 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (127 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