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

Total population
23,712
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,338/yr
4.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,281
0.4% year-over-year change

Upshur County population

How many people live in Upshur County

Upshur County is home to 23,712 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of Upshur County locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
23,712
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
11,908
Female
49.8%
11,804
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,908 50.2% 0.0%
Female 11,804 49.8% -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 Upshur County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.3% are children under 15, then 14.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22% of the population, while another 25.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.3%
15 to 24
14.4%
25 to 44
22%
45 to 64
25.4%
Over 65
21.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,864 16.3% -3.9%
15 to 24 3,414 14.4% 1.5%
25 to 44 5,229 22% 0.6%
45 to 64 6,033 25.4% -1.3%
Over 65 5,172 21.8% 2.1%
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 Upshur County, 98.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.1% of locals are Caucasian, 1.3% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.9%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 23,378 98.6% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 203 0.9% 21.6%
Non-citizens 131 0.6% 32.3%
Racial breakdown
White
92.1%
Black or African American
1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.3%
Other
0.9%
Value Percent
White 21,830 92.1%
Black or African American 317 1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 10 0%
Asian 88 0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 5 0%
Two or more races 1,253 5.3%
Other 209 0.9%

Households in Upshur County

A peek inside Upshur County households

Upshur County has 9,557 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64% are families, while the remaining 36% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,557
-0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,441
Family households
6,116
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,441 36% -2.5%
Family households 6,116 64% 0.9%
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 Upshur County

The housing landscape of Upshur County

Upshur County's housing consists of 11,281 units, with 72.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.4% 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 20.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
11,281
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,226 72.9%
1 unit, attached 48 0.4%
2 units 98 0.9%
3 or 4 units 154 1.4%
5 to 9 units 150 1.3%
10 to 19 units 33 0.3%
20 to 49 units 34 0.3%
50 or more units 146 1.3%
Mobile home 2,349 20.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 43 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
76
5.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Upshur County

In Upshur County, the median construction year is 1979. About 14.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,626 14.4% 5.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 373 3.3% -18.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 854 7.6% 2.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,059 9.4% -3.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,935 17.2% 1.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,690 15% -5.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,398 12.4% -7.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,312 11.6% -1.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 958 8.5% 38.0%
Built in 2020 or later 76 0.7% 5.6%
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.

Upshur County occupancy rates

Out of the 9,557 occupied housing units in Upshur County, 80.7% are owner-occupied, while 19.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,557
-0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,843
Owner occupied
7,714
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,843 19.3% -5.4%
Owner occupied 7,714 80.7% 1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
15.3%
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.

Upshur County housing costs

Housing costs in Upshur County come to a median of $790 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $886.

Median housing costs per month
$790/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 Upshur County
$886/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 Upshur County

Upshur County education at a glance

About 55.6% of the population in Upshur County went to high school, while 17% pursued college studies. Another 6.8% earned an associate degree and 10.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 664 3.5% 4.1%
High school diploma 10,525 55.6% -5.6%
College diploma 3,223 17% 10.8%
Associate degree 1,291 6.8% 16.6%
Bachelor's degree 1,939 10.2% 11.2%
Graduate degree 1,273 6.7% 0.4%
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 Upshur County

How much people earn in Upshur County

The average annual household income in Upshur County was $71,843 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,338, reflecting a +4.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Upshur County
$71,843/year
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Upshur County
$54,338/year
4.8% year-over-year change

Upshur County income by age

In Upshur County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,909. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $60,963 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $51,625, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,005 in earnings. Overall, 80.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $51,625 -15.3%
25 - 44 $62,909 9.8%
45 - 64 $60,963 -2.1%
Over 65 $46,005 16.5%
Above poverty level
17,805
Below poverty level
4,219
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,805 80.8% -1.4%
Below poverty level 4,219 19.2% 4.9%

Employment in Upshur County

Workforce and job types in Upshur County

The job market in Upshur County is powered by 9,057 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.8% run their own businesses, 67.1% are employed by private companies, and 18.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,057
-1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
6,534
Blue collar
2,523
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,534 72.1% -0.7%
Blue collar 2,523 27.9% -2.2%
Employer type
Self employees
6.8%
Private companies
67.1%
Governmental workers
18.6%
Not for profit companies
7.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 620 6.8% -18.4%
Private companies 6,076 67.1% -1.8%
Governmental workers 1,686 18.6% 7.7%
Not for profit companies 675 7.4% 4.5%
Unemployment rate
5.7%
-3.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Upshur County stands at 5.7%, 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 Upshur County

How people get around in Upshur County

In Upshur County, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 84% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.9% 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
4.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,408 84% -0.9%
Motorcycle 8 0.1% 60.0%
Walk 257 2.9% 2.0%
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 Upshur County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
26343 419 217 $45,560 $76,269
26234 1,045 411 $61,250 $72,770
26236 19 10 $0 $0
26237 579 173 $81,313 $69,595
26238 1,107 572 $47,951 $73,438
26267 650 168 $96,406 $123,290
26201 18,689 7,646 $53,832 $72,153
26218 2,883 1,094 $58,646 $63,701
26224 311 106 $23,000 $24,727
26228 42 14 $0 $0

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FAQs about Upshur County demographics 

What is the total population of Upshur County?

Upshur County has a total population of 23,712 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Upshur County?

The gender ratio in Upshur County is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (11,908 residents)
  • 49.8% females (11,804 residents)

What is the median age in Upshur County?

The median age in Upshur County is 42.3.

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

The age distribution in Upshur County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.3% (3,864 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.4% (3,414 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22% (5,229 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.4% (6,033 residents)
  • Over 65: 21.8% (5,172 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Upshur County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Upshur County is as follows:
  • White: 92.1% (21,830 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.3% (317 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (10 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (88 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (5 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.3% (1,253 residents)
  • Other: 0.9% (209 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Upshur County?

There are 11,281 housing units in Upshur 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 Upshur County and what is the average household size?

Upshur County has a total of 9,557 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Upshur County?

Upshur County has a median household income of $54,338, representing a +4.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.3% in Upshur County, with a workforce of 9,057 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.1% (6,534 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.9% (2,523 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.8% (620 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.1% (6,076 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.6% (1,686 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.4% (675 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