West Virginia is a state in the Southeast region of the United States, known for the Appalachian Mountains, river valleys, and coal country. It has a population of 1,769,460, making it the 40th most populated state in the country. The capital city is Charleston. West Virginia has a energy-focused economy with growing tourism sector.
Data after 2023 is projected based on recent change
The racial composition of West Virginia includes 90.9% White, 3.28% Black or African American, and smaller percentages for Asian, other race, Native American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and multiracial populations.
Race | Population | Percentage (of total) |
|---|---|---|
| White | 1,622,010 | 90.9% |
| Two or more races | 76,400 | 4.28% |
| Black or African American | 58,519 | 3.28% |
| Asian | 13,434 | 0.75% |
| Other race | 12,055 | 0.68% |
| Native American | 1,532 | 0.09% |
| Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander | 513 | 0.03% |
Married
Widowed
Divorced
Separated
Never Married
West Virginia's average per capita income is $43,838. Household income levels show a median of $57,917. The poverty rate stands at 16.64%.
Name | Median | Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Married Families | $88,588 | $108,465 |
| Families | $74,981 | $94,941 |
| Households | $57,917 | $78,799 |
| Non Families | $32,953 | $48,512 |
Average Income
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate
West Virginia’s population trends show significant regional challenges, with only a few bright spots. While Berkeley County and Jefferson County in the Eastern Panhandle have grown by 12.9% and 6.2% respectively since 2020, much of the state faces substantial population losses. Kanawha County, the most populous county at 173,000 residents, has declined 4.2%. The most severe losses are in the southern coalfields, with McDowell County declining 11.8% and Mingo County down 9.8%.