Alderson, WV
Population 1,182 · West Virginia
About Alderson, WV
Alderson is a small town located in West Virginia with a population of 1,182 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $33,794 per year, which is 55% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 53.5 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 Alderson features a median home value of $119,200, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Alderson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $724, 38% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 660 total housing units, 71% are owner-occupied (392 units) and 29% are renter-occupied (163 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Alderson shows an unemployment rate of 3.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 40.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Alderson have an average one-way commute time of 62.3 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
12.3% of Alderson residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 2.4% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Alderson, WV
Compared to national averages, Alderson has a median household income of $33,794 (55% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $119,200, which is 51% below the national median. Monthly rent at $724 is 38% below the US average of $1,163. Within West Virginia, Alderson's income is 37% below the state average of $54,014, and home values are 7% below the state median of $128,301.
Why Live in Alderson, WV?
Alderson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $119,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $724/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.4%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($33,794) that falls below the national average. However, Alderson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Alderson has a population of 1,182 with a median age of 53.5 years. Compare Alderson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in West Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Alderson
Cities in West Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benwood | 1,173 | $39,474 | $90,400 | Compare |
| Hamlin | 1,173 | $56,583 | $92,500 | Compare |
| Lesage | 1,165 | $38,944 | $0 | Compare |
| Athens | 1,156 | $62,292 | $156,800 | Compare |
| Ansted | 1,210 | $54,327 | $74,900 | Compare |
| Brush Fork | 1,213 | $51,364 | $59,200 | Compare |
| Granville | 1,215 | $32,015 | $135,400 | Compare |
| White Hall | 1,141 | $72,000 | $260,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in West Virginia
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Alderson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Alderson
What is the population of Alderson, WV?
The population of Alderson, WV is 1,182 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in West Virginia.
What is the median household income in Alderson?
The median household income in Alderson, WV is $33,794 per year, which is 55% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Alderson?
The median home value in Alderson, WV is $119,200, which is 51% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Alderson?
The median monthly rent in Alderson, WV is $724, which is 38% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Alderson?
The unemployment rate in Alderson, WV is 3.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Alderson, WV a good place to live?
Alderson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,182 and a median age of 53.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Alderson, WV?
12.3% of residents in Alderson 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 Alderson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Alderson, WV: median home value is $119,200 (51% below national), median rent is $724/month, and median household income is $33,794. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.5x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Alderson?
The poverty rate in Alderson, WV is 40.3%, 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 Alderson, WV?
Alderson's population is 2.4% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.3% of residents are foreign-born.