Hampshire County Public RecordsWest Virginia

As of the 2020 Census, Hampshire County, WV, had a population of 23,093. The median age is 47.2 years, with 20% under 18 and 22% aged 65 or older. The gender distribution is nearly even, with 50.7% male and 49.3% female. Racially, the county is predominantly White (94.9%), with Black or African American residents making up 2.5%, and Hispanic or Latino residents accounting for 1.4%. Other races and ethnicities together comprise less than 2% of the population.

Hampshire County, WV, maintains a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 230 total crimes, including 25 violent and 205 property offenses, with a crime rate of about 13.5 per 1,000 residents—lower than the national average of 22.0. The Hampshire County Sheriff’s Department regularly reports incidents and encourages community vigilance. Recent years have seen a steady decline in burglaries and thefts, while violent crime remains comparatively rare, ensuring a generally safe environment for residents.

Hampshire County, WV, has approximately 14,000 registered voters as of 2022, with about 54% Republican, 24% Democrat, and 22% unaffiliated or other parties. The county participates in federal, state, and local elections, with the 2020 presidential election showing 75% support for the Republican candidate. There are 15 polling locations across the county’s districts. Key issues include economic development and opioid response. Elections are overseen by the Hampshire County Clerk’s Office, ensuring compliance and voter accessibility. Turnout in recent general elections averaged 60%, reflecting active civic participation.

Hampshire County, WV, has 9 public schools, including Hampshire High School. About 80.5% of adults hold a high school diploma, while only around 13% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county’s school safety rating is generally in line with state averages, and schools offer career-technical, special education, and gifted programs. Recent West Virginia school report cards show an average proficiency rate of roughly 38% in math and 46% in reading. Adult education programs are available, notably through Hampshire County Adult Learning Center.

As of 2022, Hampshire County, WV, had an employment rate of approximately 52.4%. Major industries include health care and social assistance (18%), retail trade (13%), and educational services (11%). Leading occupations are in office/administrative support (12%) and sales (10%). About 77% of residents commute outside the county for work, with average travel times of 34.2 minutes. Nearby employment destinations include Mineral County and Winchester, VA.

Hampshire County, WV, has a homeownership rate around 80%, with median home values near $180,000 as of early 2024. Typical rental costs average $750–$900 for a two-bedroom unit. The property market trends upward, with values rising roughly 5% annually. Housing types range from historic farmhouses and single-family homes to some newer developments, chiefly in Romney and Capon Bridge. Neighborhoods are largely rural or small-town. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging $600–$1,200 annually for most homes, making the area affordable for both homeowners and renters.