Newell, WV
Population 1,252 · West Virginia
About Newell, WV
Newell is a small town located in West Virginia with a population of 1,252 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $38,924 per year, which is 48% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.4 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 Newell features a median home value of $86,700, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Newell one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $823, 29% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 575 total housing units, 55% are owner-occupied (293 units) and 45% are renter-occupied (240 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Newell shows an unemployment rate of 19.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 36.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Newell have an average one-way commute time of 34.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.4% of Newell 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, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 2.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Newell, WV
Compared to national averages, Newell has a median household income of $38,924 (48% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $86,700, which is 65% below the national median. Monthly rent at $823 is 29% below the US average of $1,163. Within West Virginia, Newell's income is 28% below the state average of $54,014, and home values are 32% below the state median of $128,301.
Why Live in Newell, WV?
Newell offers affordable housing with a median home value of $86,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $823/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($38,924) that falls below the national average. However, Newell’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Newell has a population of 1,252 with a median age of 43.4 years. Compare Newell with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in West Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Newell
Cities in West Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fairlea | 1,266 | $23,197 | $0 | Compare |
| Coal City | 1,236 | $23,750 | $0 | Compare |
| Man | 1,234 | $57,778 | $153,300 | Compare |
| Pennsboro | 1,227 | $51,348 | $78,000 | Compare |
| MacArthur | 1,287 | $26,824 | $126,700 | Compare |
| Granville | 1,215 | $32,015 | $135,400 | Compare |
| Brush Fork | 1,213 | $51,364 | $59,200 | Compare |
| Ansted | 1,210 | $54,327 | $74,900 | 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 Newell With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Newell
What is the population of Newell, WV?
The population of Newell, WV is 1,252 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 Newell?
The median household income in Newell, WV is $38,924 per year, which is 48% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Newell?
The median home value in Newell, WV is $86,700, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Newell?
The median monthly rent in Newell, WV is $823, which is 29% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Newell?
The unemployment rate in Newell, WV is 19.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Newell, WV a good place to live?
Newell offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,252 and a median age of 43.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Newell, WV?
19.4% of residents in Newell 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 Newell?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Newell, WV: median home value is $86,700 (65% below national), median rent is $823/month, and median household income is $38,924. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Newell?
The poverty rate in Newell, WV is 36.7%, 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 Newell, WV?
Newell's population is 0.0% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.6% two or more races. 2.2% of residents are foreign-born.