Is Living In McDowell County, WV Right For You?

Living in McDowell County, West Virginia

A complete guide of the county from schools to diversity

County

Should You Move to McDowell County?

McDowell County is home to 19,111 West Virginia residents. Over the past ten years, the county has seen a drop in growth of -15.71%, ranking it聽#1,859 in the US and #48 in West Virginia for population growth.

Based on the counties residents and economy, McDowell County, WV is OK for retirees and okay for families.

When considering schools and educational attainment, 74.6% of residents over 25 years of age graduated high school and 6.4% completed their bachelor’s degree or higher. The majority of students in McDowell County attend public school.

If diversity is essential, McDowell County received a D grade in diversity.

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How Does McDowell County Rank?

Retirement

Diversity

Professionals

Raising a Family

Most Diverse Counties In West Virginia

Learn about rankings & data

Who Lives in McDowell County?

Discover more about the people who make up the county

Total Population

19,111

10-Year Change

-15.71%

Households are Families

67.9%

Per Households

Diversity Grade

White alone

84.7%

Black or African American alone

11.3%

American Indian and Alaska Native alone

0.1%

Asian alone

0.1%

Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone

Hispanic or Latino

Retirement

Raising a Family

Under 5 years

3.8%

Under 18 years

13.9%

Over 65 years

24.8%

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Housing in McDowell County

Buying or renting? Here’s more about real estate in the county.

Total Households

Own vs. Rent

Own 80.4%

Rent 19.6%

Connect with a local McDowell County REALTOR庐

Buying or selling? We’ll help you connect with the right real estate agents in McDowell County or anywhere you need help.

Typical Age of Homes

1960 to 1979

Common Residence Type

single-family homes

Moving advice

Increase your odds of a quick sale, earning more money, or saving your rental deposit by . A study by HomeLight found home sellers who invest in cleaners earned $3,700 more.听

West Virginia driver's license & registration guide for new residents

McDowell County Schools

Explore the school district and schools

B

Fall River Elementary School

B-

Bradshaw Elementary School

B-

East Mcdowell Middle School

B-

Eastfield Global Magnet School

B-

Mcdowell Academy For Innovation

B-

Marion Elementary School

B-

Mcdowell High School

B-

North Cove Elementary School

C

Glenwood Elementary School

C+

Nebo Elementary School

B-

East Mcdowell Middle School

C

River View High School

B-

Eastfield Global Magnet School

C

Sandy River Middle School

C

Mount View High School

C+

West Marion Elementary School

B-

Bradshaw Elementary School

NR

Career And Technology Center

B-

East Mcdowell Middle School

B-

Eastfield Global Magnet School

B

Fall River Elementary School

C+

Foothills Community School

C

Glenwood Elementary School

B-

Iaeger Elementary School

Student-Teacher Ratio

Mcdowell County School District

The Mcdowell County School District in McDowell County, NC, is home to 5,881 students across 15 schools. Based on enrollment numbers, Mcdowell County Schools ranks #56 in North Carolina. Grades from Pre-K to 13 are offered in the district.

Mcdowell County School District received a student-teacher ratio grade of A, averaging 13.96 students per teacher.

Learn more about the Mcdowell County School District and explore its schools.

District Schools

Student Enrollments

5,881

Student-Teacher Ratio

13.96:1

How does Mcdowell County School District compare?

Cost of Living in West Virginia

How Does West Virginia Compare?

in Cost of Living

in Minimum Wage

in Living Wage

West Virginia State Taxes

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Should you move to West Virginia?

West Virginia, the Mountain State, is a place of rugged beauty, warm hospitality, and a deeply rooted Appalachian culture. Known for its coal mining history, outdoor recreational activities, and unique regional cuisine, West Virginia offers a lifestyle steeped in nature and tradition.

West Virginia’s economy, traditionally based in coal mining, has diversified into healthcare, education, and tourism. Its cities, like Charleston and Morgantown, offer a blend of historical charm and modern development.

Living in West Virginia offers numerous experiences. From rafting on the New River Gorge, hiking in the Monongahela National Forest, exploring the historic Harpers Ferry, or attending a vibrant music festival, West Virginia presents a distinct blend of natural splendor and cultural richness. Education is valued, with improving public schools and universities like West Virginia University and Marshall University.

If you’re seeking a state that offers a connection to nature, a slower pace of life, and a friendly, close-knit community vibe, West Virginia could be your new home. Just be prepared for the hilly terrain and the changing seasons!

Need some help with your move?

Moving labor can be hired by the hour, helping you budget for the heavy stuff or your entire move.

McDowell County Economy

The industries, jobs, and economics of the zip code

Median Household Income

$30,127

US Average $74,580

How does McDowell County compare?

Unemployment rate

13.5%

Poverty rate

28.9%

Primary Occupations

Office and administrative support occupations

Secondary Occupations

Natural resources, construction, and maintenance occupations

Crime in McDowell County

Learn more about the school district for this zip code.

Crime Rating: Very Low Crime

Total Crimes (2022)

349

Crime Rate

Per 100,000 residents

Violent crimes: 413.4

Murder: 5.2

Violent crimes: 413.4

Explore More Places

Check out more of McDowell County, or explore the surrounding area

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24836 Gary, WV

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Review McDowell County, WV

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