McDowell County's estimated 2026 population is 16,570 with a growth rate of -1.82% in the past year according to the most recent United States census data. McDowell County is the 33rd largest county in West Virginia. The 2010 population was 22,094 and has seen a growth of -25% since that time.
Data after 2023 is projected based on recent change
Overall: 43.7 years
Female: 47.3 years
Male: 41.5 years
There are 14,677 adults, (3,921 of whom are seniors) in McDowell County.
Female: 8,381 (46.7%)
Male: 9,562 (53.3%)
The racial composition of McDowell County includes 87.97% White, 8.98% Black or African American, and smaller percentages for Two or more races, other race, Native American, Asian and multiracial populations.
Race | Population | Percentage (of total) |
|---|---|---|
| White | 15,784 | 87.97% |
| Black or African American | 1,611 | 8.98% |
| Two or more races | 502 | 2.8% |
| Other race | 20 | 0.11% |
| Native American | 17 | 0.09% |
| Asian | 9 | 0.05% |
McDowell County's average per capita income is $34,720. Household income levels show a median of $31,559. The poverty rate stands at 34.18%.
Name | Median | Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Married Families | $52,917 | - |
| Families | $39,955 | $53,905 |
| Households | $31,559 | $43,863 |
| Non Families | $22,358 | $26,480 |
Average Income
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate