Mcdowell County

As of the 2020 Census, McDowell County, WV, had a population of approximately 19,111. The racial composition was about 83.4% White, 13.5% African American, and 2.3% from other races. The county faced economic challenges, with a median household income of around $25,994 and a poverty rate of approximately 37.7%. The population density was about 53.3 people per square mile, reflecting the largely rural nature of the region. The county's age distribution included a median age of about 45 years.

As of the latest data, McDowell County, WV, has approximately 9,300 residents. The county faces significant economic challenges, impacting housing conditions. The median home value is around $29,100, significantly lower than the national average. Rental prices are similarly low, with median rents approximately $500 per month. However, the housing market reflects limited demand and a high vacancy rate of about 30%. Many homes require substantial repairs due to neglect and economic decline. Efforts are ongoing to improve housing quality and affordability, aiming to revitalize the community.

As of the most recent 2022 general election, McDowell County, West Virginia had key races including local offices such as County Commission and Board of Education. Positions for state representatives were also contested.

• County Commission: Commissioner Cecil Patterson (D) was re-elected with 55.6% of the vote against Calvin Butler (R), who received 44.4%.
• Board of Education: Multiple seats were contested, with top vote-getters being Lafayette Parsons, Janet L. Hartwell, and Larry Dean.
• State Senate, 6th District: Incumbent Sue Cline (R) lost to David "Bugs" Stover (D) who won with approximately 52% of the vote.
• House of Delegates, 27th District: Ed Evans (D) received 58.3% of votes against Mark H. Ferguson (R).

These results mirror the broader political shifts and voter turnout trends in the county, which has a predominantly Democratic registration. Each candidate's campaign focused on local economic development, healthcare, and education.

As of the latest data, McDowell County, WV, faces significant educational challenges. Approximately 74.3% of residents aged 25 and older hold a high school diploma, significantly below the national average of around 88% and the West Virginia state average of 86.5%. The percentage of residents with a bachelor’s degree or higher is approximately 5.3%, starkly lower than the national average of about 33.1% and the state average of 21.3%. These figures highlight a considerable educational gap, indicating a pressing need for educational improvements and support in McDowell County.

McDowell County, WV, faces significant employment challenges, with an unemployment rate of approximately 9.5% as of recent reports, higher than both the national average (around 3.7%) and the state's average (about 4.7%). Key industries include healthcare and social assistance, educational services, and retail trade. Mining, traditionally a critical sector, has seen a sharp decline but still impacts the local economy. The poverty rate in McDowell County stands at roughly 36.1%, significantly higher than the national average of 11.4% and West Virginia’s state average of 16%. These figures highlight substantial economic distress and the need for economic diversification and investment in the region.

As of the most recent data, McDowell County, WV, has a median household income of approximately $26,547. This is significantly lower compared to the national median household income, which is around $68,703. West Virginia's state median household income is approximately $48,850, also higher than McDowell County's.

Income Comparison Table

These figures highlight the economic challenges faced by residents of McDowell County compared to state and national averages.

McDowell County, WV, has faced significant crime challenges over the years. According to the latest data:

• Violent Crime Rate: Approximately 7.4 per 1,000 residents
• Property Crime Rate: Approximately 18.2 per 1,000 residents

Here's a breakdown of different types of crimes with their respective rates per 1,000 residents:

These rates indicate that violent crime, particularly aggravated assault and robbery, are of notable concern. Additionally, property crimes such as burglary and larceny-theft are also prevalent in McDowell County.