Clay County, West Virginia
Income Data
At a Glance
How Clay County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Data Story
About Household Income in Clay County, West Virginia
Clay's income deeply below national median
Clay County's median household income of $42,790 falls 43% short of the U.S. median of $74,755, marking it among America's poorest counties. This substantial gap reflects structural economic challenges facing rural, coal-dependent Appalachia over the past two decades.
Among the poorest in West Virginia
Clay County's $42,790 median household income ranks in West Virginia's bottom tier, falling 22% below the state average of $54,746. Per capita income of $23,748 trails the state average of $30,335 by a significant margin, indicating limited earning opportunities throughout the community.
Second-poorest in this county cluster
Clay's $42,790 median household income ranks second-lowest in this profile, trailing only Calhoun ($41,421) and near Braxton ($44,449). All three counties represent the most economically distressed tier in this West Virginia sample.
Low rents ease housing burden
Clay County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.5% sits within healthy ranges, and its median home value of $107,100 remains highly accessible. For households earning near the median, low housing costs are essential—they provide critical breathing room in household budgets.
Build resilience through incremental gains
Clay residents in low-income situations should focus on skill development and credential earning that expand job options beyond local markets—online education and trade certifications offer pathways to higher income. Start with micro-savings goals, seek employer benefits wherever available, and consider geographic mobility for better-paying opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Income Comparison Calculator
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Your income is above the Clay County median
County median: $42,790 per year
vs. County Median
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vs. State Average
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vs. National Median
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Your monthly income ($3,566) vs. median rent ($589/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.
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Compare RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.