Statistic South Charleston West Virginia National
Population 12,935 1,850,719 336,919,644
Population density (sq mi) 1,639 77 91
Median age 44.2 41.9 37.7
Male/Female ratio 0.9:1 1.0:1 1.0:1
Married (15yrs & older) 51% 59% 55%
Families w/ Kids under 18 36% 37% 43%
Speak English 98% 98% 79%
Speak Spanish 0% 1% 13%
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Overview of South Charleston Demographics

Understanding the demographics of South Charleston is essential for gaining insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of any city, town or village. This knowledge empowers planners, developers and policymakers to strategize effectively, promoting prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents. The South Charleston population is 12,935, with a population density of 1,639 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 44.2, and 51% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 36% have children under 18. As far as income equality in South Charleston, 27% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 14% report an income exceeding $150,000, indicating a varied economic landscape within the area.

South Charleston Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

The South Charleston racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown could be indispensable tools for recognizing and rectifying systemic inequities, fostering social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities. In South Charleston, the racial breakdown reveals 82.3% White, 7.5% Black or African American, 3.3% Asian, 0.5% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 2.1% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 97.8% reported speaking English only, while 0.3% reported speaking Spanish only. Moreover, 2.6% of residents were classified as foreign-born.

South Charleston Population Density

South Charleston, characterized by above-average population density, plays a pivotal role in promoting environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Its compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, active transportation modes like walking and cycling and the utilization of public transit, fostering sustainable lifestyles and mitigating environmental impact. Additionally, the area's dense population contributes to a vibrant social and cultural scene, featuring a diverse array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity fuels creativity, innovation, and cross-cultural exchange, enhancing the community's social fabric. The South Charleston population density stands at 1,639, exceeding the national average, at 91 people per square mile, positioning it in a nice position to reap the benefits of densely populated areas.

Why are Demographics Important?

Healthcare Planning: The examination of South Charleston demographics can potentially inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. By comprehending demographic trends, healthcare providers and policymakers can allocate resources effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs, and address health inequities within communities. Through the utilization of demographic statistics, healthcare providers and policymakers aim to achieve equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive healthcare planning approach ensures targeted interventions, efficient resource allocation and tailored healthcare services to meet the diverse needs of populations.

Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics serve as vital tools for informing policy and decision-making processes across various levels of government, as well as within organizations and businesses. Through the reporting and analysis of demographic data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas of need, allocate resources efficiently, and craft tailored policies and programs to address the unique needs and priorities of different demographic groups. The utilization of demographic data in South Charleston is instrumental in policy planning, facilitating resource allocation, evidence-based decision-making, priority identification, trend forecasting, policy impact assessment, and the promotion of equity and inclusion. By harnessing this data effectively, policymakers can devise targeted, impactful, and inclusive policies that cater to the diverse needs of communities.

Understanding Populations: By reporting and analyzing South Charleston demographics, we can acquire valuable insights into the makeup and traits of populations, encompassing age, gender, race, ethnicity, income, education and various socio-economic factors. This comprehension is vital for tackling the varied needs, preferences, and obstacles encountered by different demographic groups within communities. Demographics serve a pivotal role in comprehending populations, guiding decision-making processes and advancing equity, inclusion and overall well-being for all individuals and communities. The South Charleston population data serves as a cornerstone for addressing social, economic and environmental challenges, while also fostering the well-being and strength of communities.

Demographics Quick Facts

  • The population density in South Charleston is 2029% higher than West Virginia
  • The median age in South Charleston is 5% higher than West Virginia
  • In South Charleston 82.26% of the population is White
  • In South Charleston 7.53% of the population is Black
  • In South Charleston 3.26% of the population is Asian

Compare South Charleston, WV Demographics

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      South Charleston racial demographics

      Race South Charleston West Virginia National
      White 82.26% 93.46% 73.35%
      Black 7.53% 3.43% 12.63%
      Asian 3.26% 0.76% 5.22%
      American Indian 0.52% 0.18% 0.82%
      Native Hawaiian 0.00% 0.04% 0.18%
      Mixed race 6.10% 1.83% 3.06%
      Other race 0.34% 0.31% 4.75%
      In South Charleston, 2.1% of people are of Hispanic or Latino origin.
      Please note: Hispanics may be of any race, so also are included in any/all of the applicable race categories above.

      Household income distribution

      Place of birth by citizenship

      South Charleston age breakdown

      Marital status

      Age of children in married couples

      Source: The South Charleston, WV demographics data displayed above is derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) and include 2026 modeled data developed using proprietary methodologies.