Wheeling, WV demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
26,350
-1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$48,590/yr
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,569
0.1% year-over-year change

Wheeling population

How many people live in Wheeling

Wheeling is home to 26,350 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.2% of Wheeling locals are male, and 52.8% are female.

Total population
26,350
-1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.2%
12,436
Female
52.8%
13,914
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,436 47.2% -0.9%
Female 13,914 52.8% -1.5%
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 Wheeling is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.6% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.2% of the population, while another 24.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.6%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
23.2%
45 to 64
24.6%
Over 65
25.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,836 14.6% -7.1%
15 to 24 3,113 11.8% -2.4%
25 to 44 6,119 23.2% 0.8%
45 to 64 6,470 24.6% -5.5%
Over 65 6,812 25.8% 5.9%
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 Wheeling, 97.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.5% of locals are Caucasian, 4.5% 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
97.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 25,647 97.3% -0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 439 1.7% -14.6%
Non-citizens 264 1% -17.8%
Racial breakdown
White
89.5%
Black or African American
4.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.3%
Other
0.3%
Value Percent
White 23,579 89.5%
Black or African American 1,180 4.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 27 0.1%
Asian 95 0.4%
Two or more races 1,387 5.3%
Other 82 0.3%

Households in Wheeling

A peek inside Wheeling households

Wheeling has 12,614 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50.1% are families, while the remaining 49.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,614
2.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,289
Family households
6,325
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,289 49.9% 6.1%
Family households 6,325 50.1% -1.1%
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 Wheeling

The housing landscape of Wheeling

Wheeling's housing consists of 14,569 units, with 62% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.3% 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 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,569
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 9,026 62%
1 unit, attached 1,066 7.3%
2 units 900 6.2%
3 or 4 units 909 6.2%
5 to 9 units 458 3.1%
10 to 19 units 319 2.2%
20 to 49 units 558 3.8%
50 or more units 1,273 8.7%
Mobile home 60 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
10
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wheeling

In Wheeling, the median construction year is 1949. About 41.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,008 41.2% 2.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,447 9.9% 6.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,670 11.5% -5.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,355 9.3% -3.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,726 11.8% 0.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 739 5.1% 6.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 642 4.4% -9.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 443 3% -14.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 529 3.6% 2.3%
Built in 2020 or later 10 0.1% N/A
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.

Wheeling occupancy rates

Out of the 12,614 occupied housing units in Wheeling, 59.8% are owner-occupied, while 40.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,614
2.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,068
Owner occupied
7,546
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,068 40.2% 1.8%
Owner occupied 7,546 59.8% 2.8%
Unoccupied housing units
13.4%
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.

Wheeling housing costs

Housing costs in Wheeling come to a median of $774 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $794.

Median housing costs per month
$774/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 Wheeling
$794/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 Wheeling

Wheeling education at a glance

About 38.8% of the population in Wheeling went to high school, while 19.9% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 19.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 348 1.6% -15.7%
High school diploma 8,387 38.8% 2.7%
College diploma 4,289 19.9% -5.9%
Associate degree 1,645 7.6% -9.4%
Bachelor's degree 4,145 19.2% 4.3%
Graduate degree 2,773 12.8% 7.3%
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 Wheeling

How much people earn in Wheeling

The average annual household income in Wheeling was $75,742 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 $48,590, reflecting a +0.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wheeling
$75,742/year
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wheeling
$48,590/year
0.2% year-over-year change

Wheeling income by age

In Wheeling, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $56,543. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $59,979 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $24,432, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $41,102 in earnings. Overall, 79.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $24,432 15.1%
25 - 44 $56,543 6.6%
45 - 64 $59,979 -5.5%
Over 65 $41,102 -0.2%
Above poverty level
19,955
Below poverty level
5,151
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 19,955 79.5% -2.1%
Below poverty level 5,151 20.5% 4.7%

Average renter income in Wheeling

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Wheeling, their median household income was $22,872 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 41.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$22,872
Rent-to-income ratio
41.7%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Wheeling

Workforce and job types in Wheeling

The job market in Wheeling is powered by 11,545 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6% run their own businesses, 67.2% are employed by private companies, and 13.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
11,545
2.8% year-over-year change
White collar
9,205
Blue collar
2,340
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,205 79.7% 4.1%
Blue collar 2,340 20.3% -1.8%
Employer type
Self employees
6%
Private companies
67.2%
Governmental workers
13.8%
Not for profit companies
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 697 6% -1.8%
Private companies 7,759 67.2% 7.0%
Governmental workers 1,594 13.8% -10.2%
Not for profit companies 1,495 13% 0.5%
Unemployment rate
6.5%
1.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wheeling stands at 6.5%, 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 Wheeling

How people get around in Wheeling

In Wheeling, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
20 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 9,645 85.6% 3.5%
Taxicab 50 0.4% 138.1%
Bus or trolleybus 246 2.2% -3.9%
Bicycle 85 0.8% 7.6%
Walk 451 4% -6.8%
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 Wheeling by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
26003 39,982 18,151 $57,703 $84,191

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FAQs about Wheeling demographics 

What is the total population of Wheeling?

Wheeling has a total population of 26,350 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 -1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wheeling?

The gender ratio in Wheeling is as follows:
  • 47.2% males (12,436 residents)
  • 52.8% females (13,914 residents)

What is the median age in Wheeling?

The median age in Wheeling is 45.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Wheeling?

The age distribution in Wheeling is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.6% (3,836 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (3,113 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.2% (6,119 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.6% (6,470 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.8% (6,812 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wheeling?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wheeling is as follows:
  • White: 89.5% (23,579 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.5% (1,180 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (27 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (95 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.3% (1,387 residents)
  • Other: 0.3% (82 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.3% of the population in Wheeling.

How many housing units are there in Wheeling?

There are 14,569 housing units in Wheeling, 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 Wheeling and what is the average household size?

Wheeling has a total of 12,614 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wheeling?

Wheeling has a median household income of $48,590, 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 Wheeling?

The employment rate is 93.5% in Wheeling, with a workforce of 11,545 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.7% (9,205 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.3% (2,340 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6% (697 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.2% (7,759 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.8% (1,594 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13% (1,495 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