West Jefferson, AL
Population 527 · Alabama
About West Jefferson, AL
West Jefferson is a small community located in Alabama with a population of 527 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $36,667 per year, which is 51% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.8 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in West Jefferson features a median home value of $136,400, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. This makes West Jefferson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $694, 40% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 282 total housing units, 92% are owner-occupied (227 units) and 8% are renter-occupied (19 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Jefferson shows an unemployment rate of 2.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 13.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in West Jefferson have an average one-way commute time of 28.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
6.7% of West Jefferson residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Jefferson, AL
Compared to national averages, West Jefferson has a median household income of $36,667 (51% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $136,400, which is 44% below the national median. Monthly rent at $694 is 40% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alabama, West Jefferson's income is 37% below the state average of $57,952, and home values are 14% below the state median of $159,358.
Why Live in West Jefferson, AL?
West Jefferson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $136,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $694/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.5%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($36,667) that falls below the national average. However, West Jefferson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Jefferson has a population of 527 with a median age of 42.8 years. Compare West Jefferson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alabama.
Similar Cities Near West Jefferson
Cities in Alabama with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fruithurst | 528 | $55,417 | $94,500 | Compare |
| Ranburne | 524 | $73,750 | $229,800 | Compare |
| River Falls | 534 | $33,281 | $85,700 | Compare |
| Hackneyville | 519 | $72,045 | $130,200 | Compare |
| Arley | 518 | $48,036 | $86,000 | Compare |
| Pennington | 536 | $28,186 | $81,500 | Compare |
| Highland Lake | 516 | $65,625 | $268,500 | Compare |
| Grimes | 515 | $32,500 | $80,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Alabama
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare West Jefferson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Jefferson
What is the population of West Jefferson, AL?
The population of West Jefferson, AL is 527 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Alabama.
What is the median household income in West Jefferson?
The median household income in West Jefferson, AL is $36,667 per year, which is 51% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Jefferson?
The median home value in West Jefferson, AL is $136,400, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Jefferson?
The median monthly rent in West Jefferson, AL is $694, which is 40% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Jefferson?
The unemployment rate in West Jefferson, AL is 2.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is West Jefferson, AL a good place to live?
West Jefferson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 527 and a median age of 42.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is West Jefferson, AL?
6.7% of residents in West Jefferson aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in West Jefferson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Jefferson, AL: median home value is $136,400 (44% below national), median rent is $694/month, and median household income is $36,667. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.7x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in West Jefferson?
The poverty rate in West Jefferson, AL is 13.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is West Jefferson, AL?
West Jefferson's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.9% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.