McDowell, KY
Population 549 · Kentucky
About McDowell, KY
McDowell is a small community in Kentucky with a population of 549 residents. The median household income is $35,576 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in McDowell is 55.2 years.
Housing in McDowell has a median home value of $73,600 and median monthly rent of $0. Of the 344 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 227 owner-occupied and 48 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in McDowell is 28.9% and the poverty rate is 41.0%. 26.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 0 minutes.
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about McDowell
What is the population of McDowell, KY?
The population of McDowell, KY is 549 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in McDowell?
The median household income in McDowell, KY is $35,576 per year.
What is the median home value in McDowell?
The median home value in McDowell, KY is $73,600.
What is the average rent in McDowell?
The median monthly rent in McDowell, KY is $0.
What is the unemployment rate in McDowell?
The unemployment rate in McDowell, KY is 28.9%.