McDowell County's 2026 population is estimated at 45,871, reflecting a 0.66% growth rate over the past year (World Population Review estimate based on U.S. Census Bureau data). McDowell County is the 57th largest county in North Carolina. The 2010 population was 45,102 and has grown 1.71% since 2010.
Data after 2023 is projected based on recent change
Overall: 44.3 years
Female: 46.1 years
Male: 42.6 years
There are 36,125 adults, (9,401 of whom are seniors) in McDowell County.
Female: 22,349 (49.9%)
Male: 22,468 (50.1%)
The racial composition of McDowell County includes 87.56% White, 3.86% Black or African American, and smaller percentages for other race, Asian, Native American and multiracial populations.
| Race | Population ↓ | Percentage (of total) |
|---|---|---|
| White | 39,241 | 87.56% |
| Two or more races | 2,111 | 4.71% |
| Black or African American | 1,730 | 3.86% |
| Other race | 1,033 | 2.3% |
| Asian | 506 | 1.13% |
| Native American | 196 | 0.44% |
McDowell County 's average per capita income is $41,630. Household income levels show a median of $57,168. The poverty rate stands at 14.81%.
| Name | Median ↓ | Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Married Families | $82,394 | $97,025 |
| Families | $71,771 | $87,125 |
| Households | $57,168 | $72,753 |
| Non Families | $30,589 | $37,373 |
Average Income
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate