Pendleton County Public RecordsWest Virginia

Pendleton County, WV had approximately 4,000 registered voters as of 2023, with registrations split mainly between Republican (about 60%) and Democrat (30%) parties. Elections include primaries, general, and special elections, administered by the Pendleton County Clerk. In the 2020 general election, Republican presidential candidates received about 80% of the vote. Polling locations include Franklin Elementary and Upper Tract Fire Department. Key issues are local economy, infrastructure, and broadband. The election process is overseen by a three-member county commission, with oversight from the West Virginia Secretary of State. Voter turnout often exceeds 60% in presidential elections.

Pendleton County, WV, has a notably low crime rate compared to national averages. According to recent FBI statistics, the violent crime rate stands at 0 incidents per 1,000 residents, and property crime is around 2.1 per 1,000. The county sheriff’s office actively reports and responds to incidents, contributing to a strong sense of community safety. With fewer than 10 total reported crimes annually, Pendleton ranks among the safest counties in West Virginia, making it a secure place for residents and visitors.

Pendleton County, WV, has a population of approximately 6,100. The median age is 51, reflecting a relatively older population, with about 23% aged 65 or older. The gender distribution is nearly even, with roughly 51% male and 49% female. The county is predominantly White (over 97%), with small minorities of Black, Hispanic, and other races making up less than 3% combined.

Pendleton County, WV has 3 public schools: 1 high school, 1 middle, and 1 elementary, with a combined enrollment of around 840 students. Approximately 79% of adults have a high school diploma, while about 17% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Public schools score around 6/10 in statewide rankings, reflecting average performance. School safety incidents are reported as low, and schools offer vocational, agricultural, and early college programs. Adult education is available via regional adult learning centers.

As of 2022, Pendleton County, WV had an employment rate of about 53%. The largest industries are health care & social assistance (17%), educational services (15%), and agriculture (13%). Major occupations include management (23%), office & administrative support (12%), and sales (11%). Most employed residents (over 90%) work within West Virginia, with a significant portion commuting to nearby counties such as Hardy and Grant. The average commute time is 34 minutes, and only around 4% of residents work from home.

Pendleton County, WV has a high homeownership rate of approximately 81%, with a median home value near $138,000 and typical monthly rents around $700 (2024 data). The housing market is largely stable, featuring single-family homes, historic farmhouses, and some cabins. Rental options are limited, concentrated in Franklin and adjacent areas. Property values have seen modest annual growth of about 3%. Property taxes are low, averaging 0.53% of assessed value. Neighborhoods are rural and scenic, with tight-knit communities and access to natural attractions like Spruce Knob and the Monongahela National Forest.