Pleasants County Public RecordsWest Virginia

As of the 2020 Census, Pleasants County, WV, had a population of 8,209. The median age was 46.5 years, with 48.7% male and 51.3% female residents. The racial makeup was predominantly White at 96.9%, followed by 0.9% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, 0.2% Native American, and 1.3% of two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents comprised 0.8% of the population.

Pleasants County, WV, has approximately 5,000 registered voters, with about 60% Republican, 30% Democrat, and 10% Independent/Other. Elections include primaries, generals, and local levies, with a 2022 turnout of roughly 52%. Polling locations include the St. Marys Marina and Belmont City Building. Recent results show the county favored Republicans by a 3:1 margin in statewide races. Common issues include economic development and infrastructure. Elections are administered by the Pleasants County Clerk’s Office. Two major parties—Republican and Democratic—dominate local politics.

Pleasants County, WV has one high school—Pleasants County Middle/High School—with around 400 students. Approximately 84% of adults hold a high school diploma, while about 14% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county operates three public schools in total, with an average state test score proficiency of 48% in reading and 42% in math. School safety measures, including controlled access and emergency drills, are in place. Educational programs feature career-technical courses and dual credit opportunities in partnership with local colleges. Adult education options are offered through regional centers.

As of 2022, Pleasants County, WV, reports an employment rate of approximately 55%. Major industries include manufacturing (23.5%), health care/social assistance (13.7%), and retail trade (10.2%). The predominant occupation types are production (21.8%), office/administrative support (13.9%), and management (10.7%). About 79% of workers commute by car with an average travel time of 29 minutes, and 35% commute to workplaces outside the county, notably in Wood and Tyler Counties.

Pleasants County, WV, has a homeownership rate of around 73%, with a median home value of approximately $110,000 as of 2023. Median gross rent is about $670 per month. The housing market remains stable, with modest value growth in recent years. Most homes are single-family detached houses, often in rural or small-town neighborhoods like St. Marys and Belmont. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 0.57% of a home's assessed value. The area appeals to those seeking affordable housing options and a quiet, small-town lifestyle.

Pleasants County, WV, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to state and national averages. As of 2022, the violent crime rate was approximately 1.8 incidents per 1,000 residents, and the property crime rate was around 6.3 per 1,000 people. Law enforcement agencies, including the Pleasants County Sheriff's Office, promote community safety through regular patrols and timely crime reporting. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities, contributing to effective prevention and resolution. Overall, Pleasants County is considered safer than over 60% of U.S. counties, reflecting its strong community and policing efforts.