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

Total population
8,286
-1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$50,582/yr
0.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,176
-0.3% year-over-year change

Ritchie County population

How many people live in Ritchie County

Ritchie County is home to 8,286 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of Ritchie County locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
8,286
-1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
4,118
Female
50.3%
4,168
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,118 49.7% -1.6%
Female 4,168 50.3% -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 Ritchie County is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.2% are children under 15, then 10.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.9% of the population, while another 28.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.2%
15 to 24
10.3%
25 to 44
21.9%
45 to 64
28.6%
Over 65
23%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,340 16.2% 1.1%
15 to 24 854 10.3% 0.5%
25 to 44 1,814 21.9% 0.8%
45 to 64 2,373 28.6% -2.9%
Over 65 1,905 23% -2.5%
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 Ritchie County, 98.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 97.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.1% are African American and 1.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 1.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.6%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,166 98.6% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 49 0.6% -26.9%
Non-citizens 71 0.9% 44.9%
Racial breakdown
White
97.2%
Black or African American
0.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
1.4%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 8,051 97.2%
Black or African American 9 0.1%
Asian 111 1.3%
Two or more races 114 1.4%
Other 1 0%

Households in Ritchie County

A peek inside Ritchie County households

Ritchie County has 3,389 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.3% are families, while the remaining 36.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,389
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,243
Family households
2,146
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,243 36.7% 9.4%
Family households 2,146 63.3% -2.0%
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 Ritchie County

The housing landscape of Ritchie County

Ritchie County's housing consists of 4,176 units, with 71.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.1% 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 23.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,176
-0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,974 71.2%
1 unit, attached 45 1.1%
2 units 44 1%
3 or 4 units 19 0.4%
5 to 9 units 80 1.9%
20 to 49 units 38 0.9%
Mobile home 970 23.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 6 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
74
825.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Ritchie County

In Ritchie County, the median construction year is 1975. About 21% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.1% 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 879 21% -11.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 256 6.1% -14.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 192 4.6% 7.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 394 9.4% 24.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 728 17.4% 5.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 410 9.8% 7.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 530 12.7% -7.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 460 11% -9.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 253 6.1% 5.4%
Built in 2020 or later 74 1.8% 825.0%
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.

Ritchie County occupancy rates

Out of the 3,389 occupied housing units in Ritchie County, 84.2% are owner-occupied, while 15.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 18.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,389
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
535
Owner occupied
2,854
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 535 15.8% 2.1%
Owner occupied 2,854 84.2% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
18.8%
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.

Ritchie County housing costs

Housing costs in Ritchie County come to a median of $415 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $579.

Median housing costs per month
$415/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 Ritchie County
$579/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 Ritchie County

Ritchie County education at a glance

About 54.5% of the population in Ritchie County went to high school, while 15.8% pursued college studies. Another 10% earned an associate degree and 10.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 2.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 418 6.3% -0.7%
High school diploma 3,620 54.5% -8.5%
College diploma 1,049 15.8% 10.7%
Associate degree 661 10% 11.8%
Bachelor's degree 717 10.8% 6.1%
Graduate degree 175 2.6% 30.6%
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 Ritchie County

How much people earn in Ritchie County

The average annual household income in Ritchie County was $67,031 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $50,582, reflecting a +0.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Ritchie County
$67,031/year
4.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Ritchie County
$50,582/year
0.7% year-over-year change

Ritchie County income by age

In Ritchie County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $52,443. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,000 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $33,333, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,286 in earnings. Overall, 78.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $33,333 -44.8%
25 - 44 $52,443 1.5%
45 - 64 $67,000 11.1%
Over 65 $37,286 -8.0%
Above poverty level
6,293
Below poverty level
1,742
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,293 78.3% -1.8%
Below poverty level 1,742 21.7% -0.7%

Employment in Ritchie County

Workforce and job types in Ritchie County

The job market in Ritchie County is powered by 3,184 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 60.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 39.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.4% run their own businesses, 61.1% are employed by private companies, and 26.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,184
8.2% year-over-year change
White collar
1,914
Blue collar
1,270
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,914 60.1% 3.4%
Blue collar 1,270 39.9% 16.4%
Employer type
Self employees
8.4%
Private companies
61.1%
Governmental workers
26.1%
Not for profit companies
4.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 266 8.4% -6.7%
Private companies 1,944 61.1% 15.7%
Governmental workers 831 26.1% -1.9%
Not for profit companies 143 4.5% 9.2%
Unemployment rate
2.4%
51.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Ritchie County stands at 2.4%, 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 Ritchie County

How people get around in Ritchie 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 2,786 88.9% 6.7%
Motorcycle 6 0.2% 50.0%
Walk 29 0.9% -50.0%
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 Ritchie County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
26325 221 95 $0 $27,967
26327 51 36 $0 $0
26337 806 347 $49,306 $63,489
26346 675 221 $73,641 $89,522
26362 3,270 1,270 $53,125 $73,940
26137 818 331 $26,098 $34,124
26148 164 119 $44,177 $52,850
26161 415 174 $0 $51,873
26178 184 115 $35,139 $28,906
26415 3,308 1,080 $56,848 $72,005

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FAQs about Ritchie County demographics 

What is the total population of Ritchie County?

Ritchie County has a total population of 8,286 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 -1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Ritchie County?

The gender ratio in Ritchie County is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (4,118 residents)
  • 50.3% females (4,168 residents)

What is the median age in Ritchie County?

The median age in Ritchie County is 46.1.

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

The age distribution in Ritchie County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.2% (1,340 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.3% (854 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.9% (1,814 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.6% (2,373 residents)
  • Over 65: 23% (1,905 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Ritchie County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Ritchie County is as follows:
  • White: 97.2% (8,051 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.1% (9 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 1.3% (111 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 1.4% (114 residents)
  • Other: 0% (1 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.6% of the population in Ritchie County.

How many housing units are there in Ritchie County?

There are 4,176 housing units in Ritchie County, reflecting a -0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Ritchie County has a total of 3,389 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Ritchie County?

Ritchie County has a median household income of $50,582, representing a +0.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.6% in Ritchie County, with a workforce of 3,184 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 60.1% (1,914 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 39.9% (1,270 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.4% (266 residents)
  • Private companies: 61.1% (1,944 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 26.1% (831 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.5% (143 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