Population Government data
The Charleston area's population shrank 4.7% from 2020 to 2025 (209,970 → 200,170), ranking #386 of 387 metros for growth (typical metro +2.5%). More people moved out than in (net -2,516).
Census Bureau population estimates, July 1 of each year, 2020–2025.
New homes permitted Government data
New-home permits in Charleston are down 56% from 2021 to 2025 (260 → 114). Permits are a sign of construction activity, not a count of open jobs.
Census Building Permits Survey, annual 2021–2025.
Local housing Government data
The Charleston area has about 105,192 homes. 63% were built before 1980 (typical metro 45%), so its housing is older than most; 7% were built in 2010 or later. Older homes often need more repair, replacement and upgrade work. 76% of households own their home, and the median home value is $144,300.
Census American Community Survey, 2024 1-year estimates (table DP04).
Highest-paying trades
All 23 trades
Click a column to sort. Jobs are employment estimates, not open positions.
| Trade | Median pay | Jobs | U.S. rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction Supervisor | $79,420 | 570 | #140 |
| Sheet Metal Worker | $68,000 | 80 | #93 |
| Electrician | $64,830 | 480 | #167 |
| Building Inspector | $63,720 | 100 | #215 |
| Telecom Equipment Installer | $63,560 | 160 | #128 |
| Concrete Finisher | $59,330 | 70 | #137 |
| Industrial Machinery Mechanic | $59,010 | 310 | #340 |
| Plumber | $58,940 | 260 | #249 |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $57,640 | 940 | #219 |
| HVAC Technician | $51,510 | 350 | #309 |
| Diesel Mechanic | $50,350 | 120 | #362 |
| Brickmason | $49,670 | 40 | #133 |
| Carpenter | $49,060 | 370 | #285 |
| Machinist | $48,110 | 110 | #329 |
| Welder | $48,000 | 190 | #317 |
| Construction Laborer | $47,770 | 660 | #177 |
| Auto Body Repairer | $47,690 | 110 | #293 |
| Painter | $47,540 | 100 | #186 |
| Fence Installer | $41,600 | 40 | #44 |
| Auto Mechanic | $41,390 | 690 | #372 |
| Maintenance Technician | $39,350 | 1,120 | #367 |
| Pest Control Technician | $37,950 | 70 | #197 |
| Landscaper | $30,630 | 360 | #375 |
Pay: BLS OEWS, May 2025 (metro-level). Real pay: BEA price parities, 2024. How we calculate
Nearby metros
See every metro in West Virginia.