West Virginia has seen a decrease in population over the past decade, unlike many other states in the US. Based on the 2020 Census data, the state’s population decreased by 3.2% between 2010 and 2020, dropping from 1,852,994 to 1,793,716. The decrease has impacted urban and rural counties, with certain counties experiencing more significant declines than others. This article will focus on the five counties in West Virginia with the most significant population decrease from 2010 to 2020.
McDowell County
McDowell County in West Virginia experienced the most significant decrease in population, dropping by 24.31% between 2010 and 2020. During this time, the county’s population decreased from 22,113 to 16,724, resulting in a loss of 5,389 residents. McDowell County can be found in the southern region of the state and was previously a significant coal mining hub. Nevertheless, the coal industry’s decline, poverty, unemployment, drug abuse, and health issues have all played a role in the county’s decreasing population.
Mingo County
Mingo County experienced the second highest population decline in West Virginia, with a decrease of 19.57% from 2010 to 2020. During this period, the county’s population decreased from 26,839 to 21,531, resulting in a loss of 5,308 residents. Mingo County is situated in the southern part of the state and borders Kentucky. Similar to McDowell County, Mingo County has been impacted by the downturn of the coal industry, environmental damage, limited economic prospects, and the departure of young residents.
Boone County
Boone County in West Virginia experienced a significant population decrease of 18.03% from 2010 to 2020, making it the third county with the highest loss. During this period, the county’s population decreased from 24,629 to 20,170, resulting in a loss of 4,459 residents. Boone County is situated in the southwestern region of the state and is a coal mining county that has encountered economic and social difficulties. Natural disasters like floods and landslides have impacted the county, causing damage to infrastructure and forcing residents to relocate.
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Calhoun County
Calhoun County experienced a significant decrease in population, making it the fourth county with the highest decline in West Virginia from 2010 to 2020. In this period, the county’s population decreased from 7,650 to 5,874, resulting in a loss of 1,776 residents. Calhoun County is situated in the central region of the state and is among the smallest and most rural counties in West Virginia. The county faces challenges such as low population density, high poverty rate, and limited access to health care, education, and broadband internet.
Wyoming County
Wyoming County experienced the fifth highest population decrease in West Virginia, dropping by 17.4% from 2010 to 2020. During this period, the county’s population decreased from 23,796 to 19,599, resulting in a loss of 4,197 residents. Wyoming County is situated in the southern region of the state and is known for its coal mining industry, which has led to economic and social challenges. The county’s unemployment rate is high, median income is low, and opioid overdose rate is high.
In conclusion
West Virginia has seen a notable decrease in population over the past ten years, impacting urban and rural areas alike. Some counties have experienced more significant declines than others, largely due to factors such as the coal industry downturn, poverty, unemployment, drug abuse, health issues, environmental damage, natural disasters, and youth outmigration. McDowell, Mingo, Boone, Calhoun, and Wyoming are the five counties in West Virginia with the most rapid population decrease. These counties encounter numerous challenges and require additional support and investment to rejuvenate their communities and enhance their quality of life.
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