In the past we’ve told you about the best towns to live in West Virginia as well as the most dangerous cities in West Virginia, but have you ever wondered, “What is the poorest county in West Virginia?” Well, we have. And so we thought we’d take some time to examine the poorest counties in West Virginia. Based on U.S. Census data, this list shows the counties with the 10 lowest per capita income. In other words, it’s the number you’d get if you added everyone’s income together and divided it by the number of people.

10. Calhoun County is 10th on the list of poorest counties in West Virginia.
Calhoun County, WV, USA
Malepheasant
It has a per capita income of $17,121, according to past census data. Don’t overlook Calhoun County just because it's among the poorest parts of West Virginia, though. It’s got a lot going for it, including Calhoun County Park, one of the best places to view the northern lights in West Virginia.
9. Fayette County is the ninth poorest county.
Fayette County, WV, USA
Ken Thomas
Fayette County, which includes Fayetteville, Oak Hill, and the Montgomery area, has a per capita income of $17,082. The ranking hasn't kept the area down, though. Fayetteville has been named one of the coolest small towns in the U.S..
8. Hardy County is the eighth poorest county in West Virginia.
Hardy County, WV, USA
Andrew Bain
Hardy County, where Moorefield, Wardensville and Baker are, has a per capita income of $16,944. Hardy County is also where you'll find Cranny Crow Overlook, which boasts expansive views like no other.
7. Lincoln County is the seventh poorest county in West Virginia.
Lincoln County, WV, USA
Malepheasant
Lincoln County, where the county seat is Hamlin, has a per capita income of $16,439.
6. Clay County is the sixth poorest county in the state.
Clay County, WV, USA
Malepheasant
Clay County, where the county seat is Clay, has a per capita income of $16,205. Being among the poorest counties in West Virginia isn’t the county’s only distinguishing feature, though. There’s also the fact that it’s home to Buffalo Creek Rail Rides , which offers one of the state’s most unique adventures.

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5. Summers County is the fifth poorest county in West Virginia.
Summers County, WV, USA
Malepheasant
Summers County, where Hinton, Sandstone and Pipestem are, has a per capita income of $15,190. Despite its ranking, Hinton, a historic railroad town in West Virginia, makes for a great day trip destination.
4. Roane County is the fourth poorest in the state.
Roane County, WV, USA
Richie Diesterheft
Its per capita income is $15,103. Spencer, a city in Roane County, is a great visit for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike, since it's home to one of the most unique hikes in West Virginia. (Spoiler alert: it leads to an abandoned dam.)
3. Doddridge County is the third poorest county in West Virginia.
Doddridge County, WV, USA
Malepheasant
It has a per capita income of $14,658. Pictured is the county seat of West Union.
2. Gilmer County is the second poorest county in the state.
Gilmer County, WV, USA
Malepheasant
In Gilmer County, where Glenville is located, the per capita income is $13,899.
1. Marion County is the poorest county in the Mountain State.
Marion County, WV, USA
Malepheasant
The poorest part of West Virginia, It has a per capita income of $12,955. Pictured is its county courthouse in Fairmont. The town of Fairmont boasts more than a charmingly historic courthouse, though. It also offers access to the MCTrail, which gives adventurers the unique opportunity to walk through a mountain.

So, there you have it, the poorest counties in West Virginia. Do these stats surprise you? Were you already in the know regarding poorest part of West Virginia? Were you surprised at any of these? Which ones and why? Tell us!

Now that we’ve discussed the poorest counties in West Virginia, let’s switch things up. Here are the most charitable counties in West Virginia.

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