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

Total population
16,740
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,477/yr
8.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,219
0.4% year-over-year change

Lewis County population

How many people live in Lewis County

Lewis County is home to 16,740 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Lewis County locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
16,740
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
8,364
Female
50%
8,376
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,364 50% -0.4%
Female 8,376 50% -0.4%
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 Lewis County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.8% are children under 15, then 10.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.4% of the population, while another 26.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
43
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.8%
15 to 24
10.9%
25 to 44
23.4%
45 to 64
26.8%
Over 65
21.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,984 17.8% 0.2%
15 to 24 1,829 10.9% -1.0%
25 to 44 3,914 23.4% 0.1%
45 to 64 4,485 26.8% -1.9%
Over 65 3,528 21.1% 0.7%
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 Lewis 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. As for race, 90% of locals are Caucasian, 1.2% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.2% 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 16,638 99.4% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 85 0.5% -34.6%
Non-citizens 17 0.1% N/A
Racial breakdown
White
90%
Black or African American
1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.2%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 15,064 90%
Black or African American 197 1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 19 0.1%
Asian 21 0.1%
Two or more races 1,372 8.2%
Other 67 0.4%

Households in Lewis County

A peek inside Lewis County households

Lewis County has 6,967 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.5% are families, while the remaining 36.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,967
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,540
Family households
4,427
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,540 36.5% 3.8%
Family households 4,427 63.5% -1.5%
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 Lewis County

The housing landscape of Lewis County

Lewis County's housing consists of 8,219 units, with 70.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.3% 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 20.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,219
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,762 70.1%
1 unit, attached 24 0.3%
2 units 88 1.1%
3 or 4 units 77 0.9%
5 to 9 units 192 2.3%
10 to 19 units 88 1.1%
20 to 49 units 69 0.8%
50 or more units 220 2.7%
Mobile home 1,675 20.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 24 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
136
10.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Lewis County

In Lewis County, the median construction year is 1977. About 19.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,637 19.9% -5.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 427 5.2% -15.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 528 6.4% -9.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 436 5.3% 45.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,463 17.8% 0.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 967 11.8% -4.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,081 13.2% 3.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 938 11.4% 7.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 606 7.4% 11.0%
Built in 2020 or later 136 1.6% 10.6%
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.

Lewis County occupancy rates

Out of the 6,967 occupied housing units in Lewis County, 72.2% are owner-occupied, while 27.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,967
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,936
Owner occupied
5,031
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,936 27.8% -4.8%
Owner occupied 5,031 72.2% 2.5%
Unoccupied housing units
15.2%
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.

Lewis County housing costs

Housing costs in Lewis County come to a median of $648 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $730.

Median housing costs per month
$648/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 Lewis County
$730/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 Lewis County

Lewis County education at a glance

About 55.4% of the population in Lewis County went to high school, while 16% pursued college studies. Another 6.4% earned an associate degree and 12.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 500 3.8% -12.6%
High school diploma 7,254 55.4% -2.0%
College diploma 2,095 16% -6.2%
Associate degree 844 6.4% 6.2%
Bachelor's degree 1,686 12.9% 18.9%
Graduate degree 725 5.5% 0.0%
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 Lewis County

How much people earn in Lewis County

The average annual household income in Lewis County was $80,876 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +9.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,477, reflecting a +8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Lewis County
$80,876/year
9.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Lewis County
$56,477/year
8.0% year-over-year change

Lewis County income by age

In Lewis County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $69,800. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $77,051 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $32,204, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,688 in earnings. Overall, 84.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $32,204 2.6%
25 - 44 $69,800 18.3%
45 - 64 $77,051 -4.0%
Over 65 $37,688 0.1%
Above poverty level
13,833
Below poverty level
2,603
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 13,833 84.2% 3.5%
Below poverty level 2,603 15.8% -16.7%

Employment in Lewis County

Workforce and job types in Lewis County

The job market in Lewis County is powered by 6,545 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 68.7% are employed by private companies, and 18.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,545
4.4% year-over-year change
White collar
4,765
Blue collar
1,780
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,765 72.8% 3.5%
Blue collar 1,780 27.2% 6.8%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
68.7%
Governmental workers
18.3%
Not for profit companies
5.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 486 7.4% 0.6%
Private companies 4,497 68.7% -0.7%
Governmental workers 1,197 18.3% 31.4%
Not for profit companies 365 5.6% 4.6%
Unemployment rate
8.6%
-5.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Lewis County stands at 8.6%, 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 Lewis County

How people get around in Lewis County

In Lewis County, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
28 min
-5.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,591 86.4% 4.5%
Walk 168 2.6% 60.0%
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 Lewis County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
26321 344 113 $103,967 $82,727
26338 518 213 $87,301 $97,708
26343 419 217 $45,560 $76,269
26447 1,174 469 $64,688 $101,500
26452 9,220 3,946 $51,695 $71,848
26372 635 262 $194,286 $154,747
26376 487 218 $34,811 $54,808
26378 4,778 1,919 $71,546 $92,807
26384 201 103 $0 $30,459
26412 767 277 $0 $62,058

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FAQs about Lewis County demographics 

What is the total population of Lewis County?

Lewis County has a total population of 16,740 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 -0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Lewis County?

The gender ratio in Lewis County is as follows:
  • 50% males (8,364 residents)
  • 50% females (8,376 residents)

What is the median age in Lewis County?

The median age in Lewis County is 43.

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

The age distribution in Lewis County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.8% (2,984 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.9% (1,829 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.4% (3,914 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.8% (4,485 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.1% (3,528 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Lewis County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Lewis County is as follows:
  • White: 90% (15,064 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.2% (197 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (19 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (21 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.2% (1,372 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (67 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Lewis County?

There are 8,219 housing units in Lewis County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Lewis County has a total of 6,967 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Lewis County?

Lewis County has a median household income of $56,477, representing a +8.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91.4% in Lewis County, with a workforce of 6,545 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.8% (4,765 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.2% (1,780 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (486 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.7% (4,497 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.3% (1,197 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.6% (365 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