MacArthur, WV
Population 1,287 · West Virginia
About MacArthur, WV
MacArthur is a small town located in West Virginia with a population of 1,287 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $26,824 per year, which is 64% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 53.8 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 MacArthur features a median home value of $126,700, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. This makes MacArthur one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $791, 32% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 678 total housing units, 85% are owner-occupied (526 units) and 15% are renter-occupied (95 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in MacArthur shows an unemployment rate of 9.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 29.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in MacArthur have an average one-way commute time of 18.5 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
3.9% of MacArthur 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 2.3% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 5.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in MacArthur, WV
Compared to national averages, MacArthur has a median household income of $26,824 (64% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $126,700, which is 48% below the national median. Monthly rent at $791 is 32% below the US average of $1,163. Within West Virginia, MacArthur's income is 50% below the state average of $54,014, and home values are 1% below the state median of $128,301.
Why Live in MacArthur, WV?
MacArthur offers affordable housing with a median home value of $126,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $791/month, and short commute times averaging just 18.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($26,824) that falls below the national average. However, MacArthur’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
MacArthur has a population of 1,287 with a median age of 53.8 years. Compare MacArthur with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in West Virginia.
Similar Cities Near MacArthur
Cities in West Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fairlea | 1,266 | $23,197 | $0 | Compare |
| Bolivar | 1,317 | $81,641 | $253,700 | Compare |
| Newell | 1,252 | $38,924 | $86,700 | Compare |
| Stanaford | 1,327 | $46,944 | $154,700 | Compare |
| Rainelle | 1,334 | $36,875 | $73,500 | Compare |
| Coal City | 1,236 | $23,750 | $0 | Compare |
| Shenandoah Junction | 1,339 | $109,048 | $193,900 | Compare |
| Man | 1,234 | $57,778 | $153,300 | 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 MacArthur With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about MacArthur
What is the population of MacArthur, WV?
The population of MacArthur, WV is 1,287 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 MacArthur?
The median household income in MacArthur, WV is $26,824 per year, which is 64% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in MacArthur?
The median home value in MacArthur, WV is $126,700, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in MacArthur?
The median monthly rent in MacArthur, WV is $791, which is 32% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in MacArthur?
The unemployment rate in MacArthur, WV is 9.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is MacArthur, WV a good place to live?
MacArthur offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,287 and a median age of 53.8, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is MacArthur, WV?
3.9% of residents in MacArthur 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 MacArthur?
Key cost-of-living indicators for MacArthur, WV: median home value is $126,700 (48% below national), median rent is $791/month, and median household income is $26,824. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.7x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in MacArthur?
The poverty rate in MacArthur, WV is 29.4%, 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 MacArthur, WV?
MacArthur's population is 2.3% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 5.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.