Hancock County Public RecordsWest Virginia

As of the 2020 Census, Hancock County, WV, had a population of 29,095. The median age is 47.5 years, reflecting an older demographic. Gender distribution is nearly even, with 49% male and 51% female. Racially, the county is predominantly White (94.5%), with smaller Black or African American (2%), two or more races (2%), Asian (0.3%), and Hispanic or Latino (1%) populations, indicating limited ethnic diversity.

Hancock County, WV, reported a crime rate of 18.9 per 1,000 residents in 2022, below the national average. Violent crimes, including assault and robbery, accounted for approximately 2.3 per 1,000 residents, while property crimes stood at 16.6. The Sheriff's Department actively encourages public reporting via hotlines and online portals, resulting in a 10% increase in reported incidents over the past year. Overall, Hancock County is considered relatively safe, with declining crime rates and strong community-police partnerships enhancing safety.

Hancock County, WV had 19,423 registered voters as of 2022, with registrations split primarily between Republican (about 43%) and Democratic (approximately 31%) parties. Residents vote in primary, general, and special elections, with the 2020 presidential results showing 72% support for the Republican candidate. The County Clerk administers elections, and key polling locations include Weirton and New Cumberland precincts. Local issues often center on economic development and education. Polling locations number 17 county-wide. Recent turnout was about 55%. Third parties and independents have minor presence, reflecting broader state trends.

Hancock County, WV, has 10 public schools, including 2 high schools, serving roughly 4,000 students. About 90% of adults hold a high school diploma, while nearly 16% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school ratings are around 5/10 on GreatSchools. The county offers career and technical education programs and adult basic education. School safety initiatives include resource officers and security systems. Overall, educational attainment is near state average, with targeted programs aiming to improve outcomes.

As of 2023, Hancock County, WV had an employment rate of approximately 54%. Major industries include manufacturing (19%), health care (16%), and retail trade (11%). The leading occupation types are production (16%), office/administrative support (13%), and management (8%). Around 85% of workers commute by car, with a mean travel time of 24 minutes. While 62% of employed residents work outside the county—primarily in nearby Ohio and Pennsylvania—Weirton remains a local employment hub.

Hancock County, WV, has a homeownership rate of about 77%, with median home values near $120,000 as of 2023. The median gross rent is around $700 per month. Housing types are primarily single-family homes, with some apartments and mobile homes. Notable neighborhoods include Weirton Heights and New Cumberland. The county’s property market has seen moderate annual appreciation rates of 2-3%. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 0.57% of a property’s assessed value, equating to approximately $685 per year on a median-valued home, making the area affordable for both homeowners and renters.