McDowell, KY
Population 549 · Kentucky
About McDowell, KY
McDowell is a small community located in Kentucky with a population of 549 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $35,576 per year, which is 53% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 55.2 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in McDowell features a median home value of $73,600, which is 70% below the national median of $244,900. This makes McDowell one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 344 total housing units, 83% are owner-occupied (227 units) and 17% are renter-occupied (48 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in McDowell shows an unemployment rate of 28.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 41.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in McDowell have an average one-way commute time of 0 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
26.2% of McDowell residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How McDowell Ranks in Kentucky
Cost of Living in McDowell, KY
Compared to national averages, McDowell has a median household income of $35,576 (53% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $73,600, which is 70% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kentucky, McDowell's income is 46% below the state average of $66,273, and home values are 60% below the state median of $182,504.
Why Live in McDowell, KY?
McDowell offers affordable housing with a median home value of $73,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and short commute times averaging just 0 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($35,576) that falls below the national average. However, McDowell’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
McDowell has a population of 549 with a median age of 55.2 years. Compare McDowell with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kentucky.
Similar Cities Near McDowell
Cities in Kentucky with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brownsboro Farm | 549 | $151,250 | $373,100 | Compare |
| Kenvir | 550 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Fleming-Neon | 555 | $37,969 | $52,700 | Compare |
| Sandy Hook | 542 | $0 | $98,500 | Compare |
| Caneyville | 541 | $25,938 | $112,500 | Compare |
| Strathmoor Village | 557 | $97,292 | $371,500 | Compare |
| Melbourne | 539 | $66,458 | $160,400 | Compare |
| Buffalo | 533 | $30,660 | $215,500 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Kentucky
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare McDowell With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about McDowell
What is the population of McDowell, KY?
The population of McDowell, KY is 549 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Kentucky.
What is the median household income in McDowell?
The median household income in McDowell, KY is $35,576 per year, which is 53% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in McDowell?
The median home value in McDowell, KY is $73,600, which is 70% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in McDowell?
The median monthly rent in McDowell, KY is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in McDowell?
The unemployment rate in McDowell, KY is 28.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is McDowell, KY a good place to live?
McDowell offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 549 and a median age of 55.2, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is McDowell, KY?
26.2% of residents in McDowell aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in McDowell?
Key cost-of-living indicators for McDowell, KY: median home value is $73,600 (70% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $35,576. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in McDowell?
The poverty rate in McDowell, KY is 41.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is McDowell, KY?
McDowell's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.