Despard, WV
Population 1,038 · West Virginia
About Despard, WV
Despard is a small town located in West Virginia with a population of 1,038 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $33,929 per year, which is 55% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.4 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Despard features a median home value of $82,100, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Despard one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $596, 49% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 488 total housing units, 56% are owner-occupied (261 units) and 44% are renter-occupied (205 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Despard shows an unemployment rate of 25.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 26.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Despard have an average one-way commute time of 17.8 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
12.7% of Despard 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 0.0% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Despard Ranks in West Virginia
Cost of Living in Despard, WV
Compared to national averages, Despard has a median household income of $33,929 (55% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $82,100, which is 66% below the national median. Monthly rent at $596 is 49% below the US average of $1,163. Within West Virginia, Despard's income is 37% below the state average of $54,014, and home values are 36% below the state median of $128,301.
Why Live in Despard, WV?
Despard offers affordable housing with a median home value of $82,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $596/month, and short commute times averaging just 17.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($33,929) that falls below the national average. However, Despard’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Despard has a population of 1,038 with a median age of 33.4 years. Compare Despard with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in West Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Despard
Cities in West Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glenville | 1,049 | $46,875 | $95,000 | Compare |
| Marlinton | 1,050 | $42,386 | $90,500 | Compare |
| Carpendale | 1,053 | $59,679 | $169,200 | Compare |
| Poca | 1,056 | $83,750 | $178,500 | Compare |
| Fort Ashby | 1,011 | $0 | $215,400 | Compare |
| Bethany | 1,066 | $61,250 | $113,600 | Compare |
| Chapmanville | 1,005 | $35,655 | $216,700 | Compare |
| Clendenin | 994 | $49,423 | $81,700 | 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 Despard With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Despard
What is the population of Despard, WV?
The population of Despard, WV is 1,038 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 Despard?
The median household income in Despard, WV is $33,929 per year, which is 55% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Despard?
The median home value in Despard, WV is $82,100, which is 66% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Despard?
The median monthly rent in Despard, WV is $596, which is 49% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Despard?
The unemployment rate in Despard, WV is 25.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Despard, WV a good place to live?
Despard offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,038 and a median age of 33.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Despard, WV?
12.7% of residents in Despard 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 Despard?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Despard, WV: median home value is $82,100 (66% below national), median rent is $596/month, and median household income is $33,929. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Despard?
The poverty rate in Despard, WV is 26.1%, 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 Despard, WV?
Despard's population is 0.0% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.