McDowell County's 2026 population is estimated at 16,591, reflecting a -1.65% growth rate over the past year (World Population Review estimate based on U.S. Census Bureau data). McDowell County is the 33rd largest county in West Virginia. The 2010 population was 22,094 and has grown -24.91% since 2010.
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