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

Total population
14,243
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$49,272/yr
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,284
0.8% year-over-year change

Hardy County population

How many people live in Hardy County

Hardy County is home to 14,243 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.2% of Hardy County locals are male, and 48.8% are female.

Total population
14,243
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.2%
7,291
Female
48.8%
6,952
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,291 51.2% 0.6%
Female 6,952 48.8% -0.5%
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 Hardy County is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.1% are children under 15, then 10.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.7% of the population, while another 28.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.1%
15 to 24
10.2%
25 to 44
21.7%
45 to 64
28.8%
Over 65
23.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,292 16.1% 7.6%
15 to 24 1,446 10.2% 1.5%
25 to 44 3,096 21.7% -2.8%
45 to 64 4,106 28.8% -1.9%
Over 65 3,303 23.2% -0.2%
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 Hardy County, 96.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.8% of locals are Caucasian, 4.9% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2%
Non-citizens
1.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 13,701 96.2% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 292 2% 1.0%
Non-citizens 250 1.8% 36.6%
Racial breakdown
White
89.8%
Black or African American
4.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.4%
Other
2.8%
Value Percent
White 12,798 89.8%
Black or African American 695 4.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2 0%
Asian 8 0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4 0%
Two or more races 344 2.4%
Other 392 2.8%

Households in Hardy County

A peek inside Hardy County households

Hardy County has 5,954 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.6% are families, while the remaining 41.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,954
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,462
Family households
3,492
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,462 41.4% 3.0%
Family households 3,492 58.6% -0.8%
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 Hardy County

The housing landscape of Hardy County

Hardy County's housing consists of 8,284 units, with 76.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.5% 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 18.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,284
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,344 76.6%
1 unit, attached 40 0.5%
2 units 25 0.3%
3 or 4 units 94 1.1%
5 to 9 units 126 1.5%
10 to 19 units 91 1.1%
50 or more units 11 0.1%
Mobile home 1,553 18.8%
Homes built since 2020
152
68.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Hardy County

In Hardy County, the median construction year is 1984. About 10.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 888 10.7% 1.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 157 1.9% -17.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 485 5.8% -17.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 750 9% -3.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,297 15.7% 20.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,442 17.4% -0.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,274 15.4% -4.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,364 16.5% -6.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 475 5.7% 27.4%
Built in 2020 or later 152 1.8% 68.9%
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.

Hardy County occupancy rates

Out of the 5,954 occupied housing units in Hardy County, 77.3% are owner-occupied, while 22.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 28.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,954
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,349
Owner occupied
4,605
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,349 22.7% 11.6%
Owner occupied 4,605 77.3% -2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
28.1%
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.

Hardy County housing costs

Housing costs in Hardy County come to a median of $692 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $816.

Median housing costs per month
$692/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 Hardy County
$816/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 Hardy County

Hardy County education at a glance

About 56.1% of the population in Hardy County went to high school, while 16.7% pursued college studies. Another 8.8% earned an associate degree and 8.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 414 3.6% -5.9%
High school diploma 6,403 56.1% -3.9%
College diploma 1,906 16.7% 3.7%
Associate degree 1,005 8.8% 7.3%
Bachelor's degree 980 8.6% 3.2%
Graduate degree 712 6.2% -7.0%
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 Hardy County

How much people earn in Hardy County

The average annual household income in Hardy County was $68,673 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $49,272, reflecting a -0.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Hardy County
$68,673/year
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Hardy County
$49,272/year
-0.1% year-over-year change

Hardy County income by age

In Hardy County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $49,911. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $63,229 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $70,185, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,750 in earnings. Overall, 82.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $70,185 -1.4%
25 - 44 $49,911 -0.3%
45 - 64 $63,229 19.6%
Over 65 $43,750 -2.6%
Above poverty level
11,455
Below poverty level
2,495
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,455 82.1% -0.3%
Below poverty level 2,495 17.9% 0.4%

Employment in Hardy County

Workforce and job types in Hardy County

The job market in Hardy County is powered by 6,141 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 60.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 39.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14% run their own businesses, 62.5% are employed by private companies, and 17.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,141
-7.4% year-over-year change
White collar
3,721
Blue collar
2,420
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,721 60.6% -10.7%
Blue collar 2,420 39.4% -1.8%
Employer type
Self employees
14%
Private companies
62.5%
Governmental workers
17.5%
Not for profit companies
6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 861 14% -1.6%
Private companies 3,836 62.5% -14.2%
Governmental workers 1,073 17.5% 15.1%
Not for profit companies 371 6% 6.0%
Unemployment rate
7.3%
22.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Hardy County stands at 7.3%, 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 Hardy County

How people get around in Hardy County

In Hardy County, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.4% 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
3.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,108 85.4% -9.8%
Bus or trolleybus 90 1.5% 246.2%
Bicycle 1 0% 0.0%
Walk 203 3.4% 28.5%
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 Hardy County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
26755 607 222 $0 $110,560
26801 1,517 566 $56,429 $77,999
26810 319 163 $0 $85,162
26812 1,525 681 $64,375 $75,320
26818 1,616 549 $42,173 $51,023
26836 5,625 2,401 $47,770 $62,023
26845 1,015 326 $64,583 $79,509
26851 1,870 945 $49,776 $66,100
26852 1,029 397 $63,221 $85,470

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FAQs about Hardy County demographics 

What is the total population of Hardy County?

Hardy County has a total population of 14,243 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Hardy County?

The gender ratio in Hardy County is as follows:
  • 51.2% males (7,291 residents)
  • 48.8% females (6,952 residents)

What is the median age in Hardy County?

The median age in Hardy County is 46.7.

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

The age distribution in Hardy County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.1% (2,292 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.2% (1,446 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.7% (3,096 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.8% (4,106 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.2% (3,303 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Hardy County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Hardy County is as follows:
  • White: 89.8% (12,798 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.9% (695 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (2 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (8 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (4 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.4% (344 residents)
  • Other: 2.8% (392 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Hardy County?

There are 8,284 housing units in Hardy County, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Hardy County has a total of 5,954 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Hardy County?

Hardy County has a median household income of $49,272, representing a -0.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 92.7% in Hardy County, with a workforce of 6,141 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 60.6% (3,721 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 39.4% (2,420 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14% (861 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.5% (3,836 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.5% (1,073 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6% (371 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