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

Total population
14,078
-1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,836/yr
6.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,297
-0.1% year-over-year change

Wetzel County population

How many people live in Wetzel County

Wetzel County is home to 14,078 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.8% of Wetzel County locals are male, and 50.2% are female.

Total population
14,078
-1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.8%
7,015
Female
50.2%
7,063
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,015 49.8% -1.3%
Female 7,063 50.2% -0.9%
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 Wetzel County is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.5% 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 22.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.5%
15 to 24
10.8%
25 to 44
21.6%
45 to 64
27.3%
Over 65
22.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,465 17.5% -2.1%
15 to 24 1,518 10.8% -2.9%
25 to 44 3,035 21.6% 1.6%
45 to 64 3,841 27.3% -2.2%
Over 65 3,219 22.9% -0.6%
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 Wetzel County, 99.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.2% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 4.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.5%
Non-citizens
0.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 13,986 99.4% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 65 0.5% 12.1%
Non-citizens 27 0.2% -30.8%
Racial breakdown
White
94.7%
Black or African American
0.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.6%
Other
0.5%
Value Percent
White 13,327 94.7%
Black or African American 26 0.2%
Asian 6 0%
Two or more races 649 4.6%
Other 70 0.5%

Households in Wetzel County

A peek inside Wetzel County households

Wetzel County has 6,113 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.8% are families, while the remaining 38.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,113
3.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,333
Family households
3,780
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,333 38.2% 1.4%
Family households 3,780 61.8% 4.3%
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 Wetzel County

The housing landscape of Wetzel County

Wetzel County's housing consists of 7,297 units, with 76% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 15.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,297
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,548 76%
1 unit, attached 73 1%
2 units 148 2%
3 or 4 units 110 1.5%
5 to 9 units 67 0.9%
10 to 19 units 84 1.2%
20 to 49 units 38 0.5%
50 or more units 100 1.4%
Mobile home 1,129 15.5%
Homes built since 2020
31
93.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wetzel County

In Wetzel County, the median construction year is 1962. About 26.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,926 26.4% 4.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 554 7.6% -3.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 945 13% -2.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 909 12.5% -10.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 885 12.1% -10.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 683 9.4% 3.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 716 9.8% 7.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 337 4.6% -9.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 311 4.3% 57.9%
Built in 2020 or later 31 0.4% 93.8%
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.

Wetzel County occupancy rates

Out of the 6,113 occupied housing units in Wetzel County, 83.2% are owner-occupied, while 16.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,113
3.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,030
Owner occupied
5,083
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,030 16.8% -1.3%
Owner occupied 5,083 83.2% 4.1%
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.

Wetzel County housing costs

Housing costs in Wetzel County come to a median of $543 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $688.

Median housing costs per month
$543/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 Wetzel County
$688/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 Wetzel County

Wetzel County education at a glance

About 52.2% of the population in Wetzel County went to high school, while 18.4% pursued college studies. Another 11.4% earned an associate degree and 9.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 225 2% -14.4%
High school diploma 5,792 52.2% -9.3%
College diploma 2,041 18.4% 7.5%
Associate degree 1,264 11.4% 2.9%
Bachelor's degree 1,082 9.8% 19.7%
Graduate degree 686 6.2% 33.5%
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 Wetzel County

How much people earn in Wetzel County

The average annual household income in Wetzel County was $73,103 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,836, reflecting a +6.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wetzel County
$73,103/year
6.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wetzel County
$56,836/year
6.5% year-over-year change

Wetzel County income by age

In Wetzel County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $75,495. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,821 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $52,396, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,301 in earnings. Overall, 84% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $52,396 30.1%
25 - 44 $75,495 39.5%
45 - 64 $66,821 3.4%
Over 65 $44,301 -3.4%
Above poverty level
11,499
Below poverty level
2,183
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,499 84% 0.7%
Below poverty level 2,183 16% -3.4%

Employment in Wetzel County

Workforce and job types in Wetzel County

The job market in Wetzel County is powered by 5,181 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.2% run their own businesses, 68.5% are employed by private companies, and 20.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
5,181
2.1% year-over-year change
White collar
3,299
Blue collar
1,882
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,299 63.7% 8.3%
Blue collar 1,882 36.3% -7.2%
Employer type
Self employees
5.2%
Private companies
68.5%
Governmental workers
20.8%
Not for profit companies
5.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 267 5.2% -7.0%
Private companies 3,549 68.5% 4.9%
Governmental workers 1,075 20.8% 0.1%
Not for profit companies 290 5.6% -12.7%
Unemployment rate
5.4%
-5.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wetzel County stands at 5.4%, 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 Wetzel County

How people get around in Wetzel County

Commuting methods vary: 90.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.1% 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 4,586 90.1% 1.3%
Bus or trolleybus 5 0.1% 0.0%
Walk 156 3.1% -19.6%
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 Wetzel County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
26348 184 121 $0 $47,647
26155 8,003 3,427 $64,485 $79,917
26159 2,446 968 $66,190 $74,790
26167 474 289 $57,470 $57,324
26055 1,139 547 $49,821 $68,024
26377 654 294 $51,198 $47,726
26562 721 222 $55,603 $73,783
26575 523 281 $39,676 $46,213
26419 758 301 $47,443 $79,127
26437 502 175 $0 $80,218

Explore more communities

FAQs about Wetzel County demographics 

What is the total population of Wetzel County?

Wetzel County has a total population of 14,078 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 -1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wetzel County?

The gender ratio in Wetzel County is as follows:
  • 49.8% males (7,015 residents)
  • 50.2% females (7,063 residents)

What is the median age in Wetzel County?

The median age in Wetzel County is 45.3.

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

The age distribution in Wetzel County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.5% (2,465 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.8% (1,518 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.6% (3,035 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.3% (3,841 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.9% (3,219 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wetzel County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wetzel County is as follows:
  • White: 94.7% (13,327 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.2% (26 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (6 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.6% (649 residents)
  • Other: 0.5% (70 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 99.4% of the population in Wetzel County.

How many housing units are there in Wetzel County?

There are 7,297 housing units in Wetzel 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 Wetzel County and what is the average household size?

Wetzel County has a total of 6,113 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wetzel County?

Wetzel County has a median household income of $56,836, representing a +6.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.6% in Wetzel County, with a workforce of 5,181 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.7% (3,299 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.3% (1,882 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.2% (267 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.5% (3,549 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.8% (1,075 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.6% (290 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