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

Total population
58,563
-0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$53,210/yr
11.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
29,345
-0.0% year-over-year change

Mercer County population

How many people live in Mercer County

Mercer County is home to 58,563 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.3% of Mercer County locals are male, and 51.7% are female.

Total population
58,563
-0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.3%
28,266
Female
51.7%
30,297
Value Percent YoY change
Male 28,266 48.3% -0.4%
Female 30,297 51.7% -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 Mercer County is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.6% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.8% of the population, while another 25.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.6%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
22.8%
45 to 64
25.3%
Over 65
22.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 10,286 17.6% -1.3%
15 to 24 6,710 11.5% -1.6%
25 to 44 13,356 22.8% -0.5%
45 to 64 14,818 25.3% -1.6%
Over 65 13,393 22.9% 0.4%
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 Mercer County, 98.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88.9% of locals are Caucasian, 4% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.8%
Non-citizens
0.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 57,901 98.9% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 484 0.8% -15.8%
Non-citizens 178 0.3% -20.9%
Racial breakdown
White
88.9%
Black or African American
4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 52,059 88.9%
Black or African American 2,372 4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 245 0.4%
Asian 127 0.2%
Two or more races 3,506 6%
Other 254 0.4%

Households in Mercer County

A peek inside Mercer County households

Mercer County has 24,224 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.6% are families, while the remaining 37.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
24,224
-0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
9,067
Family households
15,157
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,067 37.4% 4.8%
Family households 15,157 62.6% -3.8%
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 Mercer County

The housing landscape of Mercer County

Mercer County's housing consists of 29,345 units, with 66.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.4% 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 20.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
29,345
-0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 19,607 66.8%
1 unit, attached 417 1.4%
2 units 401 1.4%
3 or 4 units 600 2%
5 to 9 units 1,262 4.3%
10 to 19 units 500 1.7%
20 to 49 units 290 1%
50 or more units 354 1.2%
Mobile home 5,914 20.2%
Homes built since 2020
164
8.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Mercer County

In Mercer County, the median construction year is 1974. About 16.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,735 16.1% -2.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,968 6.7% -0.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,730 9.3% 11.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,193 10.9% -4.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,931 16.8% -7.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,554 12.1% 3.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,832 13.1% 1.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,736 9.3% 2.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,502 5.1% 8.8%
Built in 2020 or later 164 0.6% 8.6%
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.

Mercer County occupancy rates

Out of the 24,224 occupied housing units in Mercer County, 72.9% are owner-occupied, while 27.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
24,224
-0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,572
Owner occupied
17,652
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,572 27.1% -11.0%
Owner occupied 17,652 72.9% 3.7%
Unoccupied housing units
17.5%
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.

Mercer County housing costs

Housing costs in Mercer County come to a median of $619 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $810.

Median housing costs per month
$619/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 Mercer County
$810/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 Mercer County

Mercer County education at a glance

About 46.4% of the population in Mercer County went to high school, while 21.1% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 14% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,605 3.5% -16.2%
High school diploma 21,505 46.4% -3.9%
College diploma 9,787 21.1% 1.3%
Associate degree 3,533 7.6% 1.1%
Bachelor's degree 6,506 14% 3.6%
Graduate degree 3,423 7.4% 15.1%
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 Mercer County

How much people earn in Mercer County

The average annual household income in Mercer County was $71,510 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $53,210, reflecting a +11.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Mercer County
$71,510/year
7.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Mercer County
$53,210/year
11.3% year-over-year change

Mercer County income by age

In Mercer County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,451. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $64,078 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $31,964, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,195 in earnings. Overall, 83.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $31,964 2.9%
25 - 44 $62,451 8.8%
45 - 64 $64,078 15.8%
Over 65 $43,195 4.3%
Above poverty level
47,313
Below poverty level
9,377
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 47,313 83.5% 0.8%
Below poverty level 9,377 16.5% -9.1%

Employment in Mercer County

Workforce and job types in Mercer County

The job market in Mercer County is powered by 23,338 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7% run their own businesses, 63.1% are employed by private companies, and 20.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
23,338
2.3% year-over-year change
White collar
16,951
Blue collar
6,387
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 16,951 72.6% 2.9%
Blue collar 6,387 27.4% 0.6%
Employer type
Self employees
7%
Private companies
63.1%
Governmental workers
20.2%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,625 7% 0.7%
Private companies 14,722 63.1% 0.0%
Governmental workers 4,709 20.2% 9.3%
Not for profit companies 2,282 9.8% 4.6%
Unemployment rate
2.6%
-33.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Mercer County stands at 2.6%, 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 Mercer County

How people get around in Mercer County

In Mercer County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 88.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
-1.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 20,616 88.9% 2.3%
Bus or trolleybus 113 0.5% -9.6%
Motorcycle 50 0.2% -10.7%
Walk 490 2.1% 0.8%
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 Mercer County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
24701 17,117 7,376 $50,455 $66,360
24712 2,913 719 $80,625 $80,913
24714 203 44 $0 $50,580
24715 275 119 $76,875 $71,860
24724 68 35 $0 $53,754
24729 38 17 $2,499 $16,518
24731 175 71 $0 $78,601
24733 122 74 $0 $336,811
24736 426 191 $0 $63,456
24737 1,186 506 $31,330 $50,475

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FAQs about Mercer County demographics 

What is the total population of Mercer County?

Mercer County has a total population of 58,563 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 -0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Mercer County?

The gender ratio in Mercer County is as follows:
  • 48.3% males (28,266 residents)
  • 51.7% females (30,297 residents)

What is the median age in Mercer County?

The median age in Mercer County is 43.5.

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

The age distribution in Mercer County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.6% (10,286 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (6,710 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.8% (13,356 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.3% (14,818 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.9% (13,393 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Mercer County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Mercer County is as follows:
  • White: 88.9% (52,059 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4% (2,372 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (245 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (127 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6% (3,506 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (254 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.9% of the population in Mercer County.

How many housing units are there in Mercer County?

There are 29,345 housing units in Mercer 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 Mercer County and what is the average household size?

Mercer County has a total of 24,224 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Mercer County?

Mercer County has a median household income of $53,210, representing a +11.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.4% in Mercer County, with a workforce of 23,338 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.6% (16,951 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.4% (6,387 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7% (1,625 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.1% (14,722 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.2% (4,709 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (2,282 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