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

Total population
73,195
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,150/yr
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
34,604
-0.1% year-over-year change

Raleigh County population

How many people live in Raleigh County

Raleigh County is home to 73,195 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.6% of Raleigh County locals are male, and 49.4% are female.

Total population
73,195
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.6%
37,005
Female
49.4%
36,190
Value Percent YoY change
Male 37,005 50.6% 0.1%
Female 36,190 49.4% -1.4%
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 Raleigh County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.1% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.1% of the population, while another 24.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.1%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
24.1%
45 to 64
24.9%
Over 65
22.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 12,508 17.1% -1.9%
15 to 24 8,588 11.7% 1.4%
25 to 44 17,647 24.1% -2.1%
45 to 64 18,244 24.9% -0.9%
Over 65 16,208 22.1% 1.2%
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 Raleigh County, 98.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 87.4% of locals are Caucasian, 6.8% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.2%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 71,823 98.1% -0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 857 1.2% -6.0%
Non-citizens 515 0.7% 28.8%
Racial breakdown
White
87.4%
Black or African American
6.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.4%
Other
0.5%
Value Percent
White 63,941 87.4%
Black or African American 5,015 6.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 12 0%
Asian 632 0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 25 0%
Two or more races 3,209 4.4%
Other 361 0.5%

Households in Raleigh County

A peek inside Raleigh County households

Raleigh County has 29,004 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.1% are families, while the remaining 34.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
29,004
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
10,112
Family households
18,892
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 10,112 34.9% -1.0%
Family households 18,892 65.1% 0.2%
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 Raleigh County

The housing landscape of Raleigh County

Raleigh County's housing consists of 34,604 units, with 73.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2% 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 16.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
34,604
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 25,352 73.3%
1 unit, attached 699 2%
2 units 384 1.1%
3 or 4 units 547 1.6%
5 to 9 units 622 1.8%
10 to 19 units 407 1.2%
20 to 49 units 298 0.9%
50 or more units 676 2%
Mobile home 5,600 16.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 19 0%
Homes built since 2020
71
102.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Raleigh County

In Raleigh County, the median construction year is 1977. About 8.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 10.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,005 8.7% -4.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,515 10.2% -6.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,428 9.9% -14.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,839 8.2% -3.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,823 19.7% 5.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,392 12.7% 8.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,882 14.1% 3.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,477 10% 2.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,172 6.3% 2.7%
Built in 2020 or later 71 0.2% 102.9%
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.

Raleigh County occupancy rates

Out of the 29,004 occupied housing units in Raleigh County, 75.3% are owner-occupied, while 24.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
29,004
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,155
Owner occupied
21,849
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,155 24.7% -2.9%
Owner occupied 21,849 75.3% 0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
16.2%
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.

Raleigh County housing costs

Housing costs in Raleigh County come to a median of $741 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $902.

Median housing costs per month
$741/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 Raleigh County
$902/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 Raleigh County

Raleigh County education at a glance

About 49.1% of the population in Raleigh County went to high school, while 19.6% pursued college studies. Another 6.6% earned an associate degree and 13.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,060 3.6% -9.5%
High school diploma 28,402 49.1% -0.6%
College diploma 11,337 19.6% 0.1%
Associate degree 3,831 6.6% -3.1%
Bachelor's degree 7,714 13.4% 4.8%
Graduate degree 4,459 7.7% -3.6%
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 Raleigh County

How much people earn in Raleigh County

The average annual household income in Raleigh County was $70,624 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $52,150, reflecting a +0.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Raleigh County
$70,624/year
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Raleigh County
$52,150/year
0.2% year-over-year change

Raleigh County income by age

In Raleigh County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $64,513. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $57,968 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $33,857, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $41,965 in earnings. Overall, 77.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $33,857 8.9%
25 - 44 $64,513 -4.8%
45 - 64 $57,968 2.7%
Over 65 $41,965 1.9%
Above poverty level
53,244
Below poverty level
15,591
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 53,244 77.4% -2.0%
Below poverty level 15,591 22.6% 5.2%

Employment in Raleigh County

Workforce and job types in Raleigh County

The job market in Raleigh County is powered by 27,060 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.6% run their own businesses, 66% are employed by private companies, and 20.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
27,060
-0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
20,650
Blue collar
6,410
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 20,650 76.3% -1.6%
Blue collar 6,410 23.7% 1.8%
Employer type
Self employees
7.6%
Private companies
66%
Governmental workers
20.5%
Not for profit companies
5.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,048 7.6% -7.2%
Private companies 17,857 66% -0.2%
Governmental workers 5,555 20.5% -4.8%
Not for profit companies 1,600 5.9% 19.1%
Unemployment rate
5.0%
-9.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Raleigh County stands at 5%, 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 Raleigh County

How people get around in Raleigh County

Commuting methods vary: 88.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 23,848 88.9% -2.2%
Taxicab 138 0.5% 70.4%
Bus or trolleybus 22 0.1% 450.0%
Subway or elevated 15 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 10 0% 0.0%
Bicycle 11 0% 22.2%
Walk 231 0.9% -25.5%
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 Raleigh County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
25007 687 225 $38,177 $35,440
25140 1,321 432 $0 $40,976
25174 204 107 $0 $40,031
25180 182 61 $0 $49,502
25008 113 58 $0 $47,531
25044 324 143 $57,750 $52,484
25048 351 67 $41,179 $47,387
25060 36 15 $0 $0
25062 233 139 $0 $50,892
25209 539 247 $48,674 $57,863

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FAQs about Raleigh County demographics 

What is the total population of Raleigh County?

Raleigh County has a total population of 73,195 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Raleigh County?

The gender ratio in Raleigh County is as follows:
  • 50.6% males (37,005 residents)
  • 49.4% females (36,190 residents)

What is the median age in Raleigh County?

The median age in Raleigh County is 42.9.

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

The age distribution in Raleigh County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.1% (12,508 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (8,588 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.1% (17,647 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.9% (18,244 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.1% (16,208 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Raleigh County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Raleigh County is as follows:
  • White: 87.4% (63,941 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.8% (5,015 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (12 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (632 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (25 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.4% (3,209 residents)
  • Other: 0.5% (361 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.1% of the population in Raleigh County.

How many housing units are there in Raleigh County?

There are 34,604 housing units in Raleigh 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 Raleigh County and what is the average household size?

Raleigh County has a total of 29,004 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Raleigh County?

Raleigh County has a median household income of $52,150, representing a +0.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95% in Raleigh County, with a workforce of 27,060 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.3% (20,650 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.7% (6,410 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.6% (2,048 residents)
  • Private companies: 66% (17,857 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.5% (5,555 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.9% (1,600 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