Education, Employment and Housing

Mason County, WV, has around 14 public schools, including three high schools: Point Pleasant, Wahama, and Hannan. The high school graduation rate is approximately 86%, but only about 13% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average test scores are slightly below the state average, with a school safety rating of B. Educational programs include vocational training and dual-credit courses. Adult education is supported by vocational centers offering GED and job skill programs.

As of 2022, Mason County, WV, reported an employment rate of approximately 52.6%. The leading industries include health care and social assistance (17%), manufacturing (16%), and retail trade (12%). Major occupation types are production, transportation, and material moving (22%), followed by office and administrative support (15%). About 78% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 25 minutes. Most employees work within the county, while around 20% commute to neighboring areas, including Cabell and Jackson counties.

Mason County, WV, features a median home value of about $110,000 (2023), well below national averages. Homeownership rates are high, with roughly 75% of residents owning their homes, and median monthly rents are approximately $700. Housing types are predominantly single-family homes, with some mobile homes and small apartment complexes. Popular neighborhoods include Point Pleasant and Mason. The property market has seen modest appreciation of about 6% annually. Property taxes are low, averaging 0.57% of assessed value, making the county attractive for affordable living.

County Crime & Safety

Mason County, WV, maintains a relatively moderate crime rate compared to national averages. According to FBI data, the county reported a violent crime rate of approximately 2.5 incidents per 1,000 residents in 2022, below the U.S. average of 4.0. Property crime rates stood at 14.8 per 1,000, with theft being the most common offense. Local law enforcement encourages prompt crime reporting and has implemented community safety initiatives, contributing to a steady decline in incidents over recent years. Overall, Mason County remains considered a safer area within West Virginia.

Demographics

Mason County, WV, has a population of approximately 25,500 (2022). The median age is about 44 years, indicating an older population. Gender distribution is nearly equal, with around 49% male and 51% female. Racially, the county is predominantly White (94%), with smaller percentages of Black or African American (2%), two or more races (3%), and Hispanic or Latino (1%). The area remains less diverse compared to national averages.

Elections

Mason County, WV, had approximately 16,300 registered voters as of 2024, with party breakdowns showing 55% Republican, 29% Democrat, and 16% independent/other. The county conducts primary and general elections, with 2022 results showing Republicans winning most local offices by 65%-70% margins. There are 26 polling locations, including Point Pleasant High School. Key issues include economic development and drug use. The County Clerk’s Office administers elections, ensuring compliance with state laws. Voter turnout averages 50% in general elections. Major parties are Republican and Democratic, with third parties rarely surpassing 2% of the vote.