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

Total population
24,277
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,639/yr
10.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,550
0.1% year-over-year change

Nicholas County population

How many people live in Nicholas County

Nicholas County is home to 24,277 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.6% of Nicholas County locals are male, and 49.4% are female.

Total population
24,277
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.6%
12,285
Female
49.4%
11,992
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,285 50.6% -0.1%
Female 11,992 49.4% -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 Nicholas County is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.3% are children under 15, then 10.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.6% of the population, while another 27.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.3%
15 to 24
10.8%
25 to 44
21.6%
45 to 64
27.3%
Over 65
23.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,965 16.3% -2.0%
15 to 24 2,625 10.8% 6.2%
25 to 44 5,248 21.6% -2.6%
45 to 64 6,630 27.3% -2.2%
Over 65 5,809 23.9% 0.9%
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 Nicholas County, 98.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 96.3% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 1.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 23,840 98.2% -1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 351 1.4% 46.2%
Non-citizens 86 0.4% -33.3%
Racial breakdown
White
96.3%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
1.9%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 23,386 96.3%
Black or African American 133 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2 0%
Asian 59 0.2%
Two or more races 453 1.9%
Other 244 1%

Households in Nicholas County

A peek inside Nicholas County households

Nicholas County has 9,466 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.6% are families, while the remaining 35.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,466
-1.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,348
Family households
6,118
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,348 35.4% -0.7%
Family households 6,118 64.6% -1.7%
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 Nicholas County

The housing landscape of Nicholas County

Nicholas County's housing consists of 12,550 units, with 73.3% 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 20.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
12,550
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,197 73.3%
1 unit, attached 34 0.3%
2 units 87 0.7%
3 or 4 units 168 1.3%
5 to 9 units 255 2%
10 to 19 units 53 0.4%
20 to 49 units 29 0.2%
50 or more units 80 0.6%
Mobile home 2,600 20.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 47 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
136
28.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Nicholas County

In Nicholas County, the median construction year is 1981. About 9.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,248 9.9% -0.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 552 4.4% -29.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,235 9.8% 14.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 891 7.1% -19.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,223 17.7% 3.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,097 16.7% 8.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,638 13% -3.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,695 13.5% 3.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 835 6.6% 4.1%
Built in 2020 or later 136 1.1% 28.3%
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.

Nicholas County occupancy rates

Out of the 9,466 occupied housing units in Nicholas County, 82.2% are owner-occupied, while 17.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 24.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,466
-1.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,684
Owner occupied
7,782
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,684 17.8% -1.0%
Owner occupied 7,782 82.2% -1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
24.6%
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.

Nicholas County housing costs

Housing costs in Nicholas County come to a median of $562 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $686.

Median housing costs per month
$562/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 Nicholas County
$686/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 Nicholas County

Nicholas County education at a glance

About 52.2% of the population in Nicholas County went to high school, while 17.4% pursued college studies. Another 5.6% earned an associate degree and 13.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 538 2.8% -31.7%
High school diploma 10,006 52.2% -0.4%
College diploma 3,341 17.4% -15.7%
Associate degree 1,083 5.6% -7.5%
Bachelor's degree 2,534 13.2% 34.6%
Graduate degree 1,653 8.6% 6.5%
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 Nicholas County

How much people earn in Nicholas County

The average annual household income in Nicholas County was $74,713 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +8.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,639, reflecting a +10.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Nicholas County
$74,713/year
8.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Nicholas County
$54,639/year
10.9% year-over-year change

Nicholas County income by age

In Nicholas County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $77,009. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $58,647 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $89,167, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,917 in earnings. Overall, 85% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $89,167 N/A
25 - 44 $77,009 5.7%
45 - 64 $58,647 9.1%
Over 65 $39,917 2.6%
Above poverty level
20,323
Below poverty level
3,571
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 20,323 85% 2.6%
Below poverty level 3,571 15% -15.1%

Employment in Nicholas County

Workforce and job types in Nicholas County

The job market in Nicholas County is powered by 8,823 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.6% run their own businesses, 65.5% are employed by private companies, and 17.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,823
1.7% year-over-year change
White collar
6,374
Blue collar
2,449
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,374 72.2% 4.8%
Blue collar 2,449 27.8% -5.7%
Employer type
Self employees
8.6%
Private companies
65.5%
Governmental workers
17.6%
Not for profit companies
8.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 760 8.6% 1.3%
Private companies 5,776 65.5% -2.0%
Governmental workers 1,554 17.6% 14.9%
Not for profit companies 733 8.3% 7.8%
Unemployment rate
5.9%
-32.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Nicholas County stands at 5.9%, 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 Nicholas County

How people get around in Nicholas County

In Nicholas County, the average commute time is 33 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 92.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
33 min
-3.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,105 92.6% 2.1%
Bus or trolleybus 87 1% -24.4%
Walk 73 0.8% -17.1%
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 Nicholas County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
26617 763 204 $56,250 $70,141
25981 842 346 $37,639 $35,889
26261 2,760 1,036 $33,750 $65,664
26610 723 395 $37,165 $45,583
25043 1,165 413 $0 $48,962
25059 324 121 $105,920 $164,663
26202 457 205 $75,801 $74,452
25111 227 100 $56,591 $62,011
26205 2,957 1,234 $37,378 $52,653
26208 893 289 $49,922 $66,128

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FAQs about Nicholas County demographics 

What is the total population of Nicholas County?

Nicholas County has a total population of 24,277 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 -0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Nicholas County?

The gender ratio in Nicholas County is as follows:
  • 50.6% males (12,285 residents)
  • 49.4% females (11,992 residents)

What is the median age in Nicholas County?

The median age in Nicholas County is 46.1.

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

The age distribution in Nicholas County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.3% (3,965 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.8% (2,625 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.6% (5,248 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.3% (6,630 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.9% (5,809 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Nicholas County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Nicholas County is as follows:
  • White: 96.3% (23,386 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (133 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (2 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (59 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 1.9% (453 residents)
  • Other: 1% (244 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.2% of the population in Nicholas County.

How many housing units are there in Nicholas County?

There are 12,550 housing units in Nicholas County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Nicholas County has a total of 9,466 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Nicholas County?

Nicholas County has a median household income of $54,639, representing a +10.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.1% in Nicholas County, with a workforce of 8,823 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.2% (6,374 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.8% (2,449 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.6% (760 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.5% (5,776 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.6% (1,554 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.3% (733 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