IncomeBy County

McDowell County, North Carolina

Income Data

-9% vs. North Carolina average
$55,527
Median Household Income
$29,555
Per Capita Income

At a Glance

Median Household Income
$55,527
-9% vs. state avg
Per Capita Income
$29,555
-25% vs. national
Income-to-Housing Ratio
33.0%
income as % of home value
Rank in North Carolina
#65 / 100
by median household income

How McDowell County Compares

McDowell County$55,527
North Carolina Average$61,072
National Median$74,755

Detailed Income Statistics

$55,527
Median Household Income
$29,555
Per Capita Income
$168,300
Median Home Value
33.0%
Income-to-Housing Ratio

Data Story

About Household Income in McDowell County, North Carolina

McDowell trails national income benchmark

McDowell County's median household income of $55,527 falls significantly below the U.S. median of $74,755, a gap of $19,228 or 26%. This income deficit is typical of Appalachian coal-region counties navigating post-industrial economic transitions.

Among North Carolina's lower-income counties

McDowell County's $55,527 median household income ranks below North Carolina's state average of $61,072 by $5,545. The per capita income of $29,555 is also below state average, positioning the county in the lower third of North Carolina's income distribution.

Slightly outearns Martin County only

McDowell County earns more than Martin County ($46,793) but trails most other neighboring counties, including Mitchell County ($58,089) and Madison County ($58,628). The county's historical dependence on coal mining creates income volatility and limited diversification.

Housing costs remain manageable

McDowell County's 16.0% rent-to-income ratio demonstrates solid housing affordability relative to income, staying well below the 30% sustainability threshold. The median home value of $168,300 remains modestly priced, offering stability for homeowners despite modest incomes.

Diversify income sources strategically

McDowell County households earning $55,527 should explore dual-income strategies, side businesses, or remote work to supplement primary earnings. Building an emergency fund first—targeting 3-6 months of expenses—creates the foundation for safer long-term wealth investments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the median household income in McDowell County, North Carolina?
The median household income in McDowell County, North Carolina is $55,527, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. This represents the midpoint of all household incomes in the county.
How much do people earn in McDowell County?
The per capita income in McDowell County is $29,555, which represents the average income per person across the entire county population. The median household income — which accounts for all earners in a household — is $55,527.
How does McDowell County compare to the North Carolina average?
McDowell County's median household income of $55,527 is lower than the North Carolina state average of $61,072. The per capita income is $29,555, compared to the state average of $33,920.
What is the per capita income in McDowell County, North Carolina?
The per capita income in McDowell County, North Carolina is $29,555, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. Per capita income is calculated by dividing total personal income by total population, providing an average income figure per resident.
Is McDowell County a low-income area in North Carolina?
McDowell County's median household income of $55,527 is below the North Carolina average of $61,072. The per capita income of $29,555 is also lower than the state average of $33,920. Lower incomes can reflect the local economic base, rural vs. urban location, and employment opportunities available in the area.
How does McDowell County rank for income in North Carolina?
McDowell County ranks #65 out of 100 counties in North Carolina by median household income (1 = highest). With a median household income of $55,527 and per capita income of $29,555, it falls in the middle third of counties statewide.

Income Comparison Calculator

See how your household income compares in McDowell County

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Your income is above the McDowell County median

County median: $55,527 per year

vs. County Median

+0%

vs. State Average

-9%

vs. National Median

-26%

vs. McDowell County MedianAbout equal
vs. North Carolina Average▼ 9% below
vs. National Median▼ 26% below

Income Adequacy

Monthly income covers median rent6.2x

Your monthly income ($4,627) vs. median rent ($741/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.

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Counties with Similar Income Levels

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$55,517
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Wayne County
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$55,539
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Ashtabula County
Ohio
$55,507
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Clinch County
Georgia
$55,549
+0%
Sullivan County
Missouri
$55,500
+0%
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Data: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.

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