West Haven, CT
Population 55,147 · Connecticut
About West Haven, CT
West Haven is a mid-sized city located in Connecticut with a population of 55,147 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $73,566 per year, which is 2% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in West Haven features a median home value of $265,200, which is 8% above the national median of $244,900. This positions West Haven in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,389, 19% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 21,884 total housing units, 51% are owner-occupied (10,589 units) and 49% are renter-occupied (10,141 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Haven shows an unemployment rate of 6.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 12.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in West Haven have an average one-way commute time of 24 minutes.
Education & Demographics
29.0% of West Haven residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 3.5% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 11.4% Black or African American, and 11.1% Asian residents, with 20.7% of the population being foreign-born.
How West Haven Ranks in Connecticut
Cost of Living in West Haven, CT
Compared to national averages, West Haven has a median household income of $73,566 (2% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $265,200, which is 8% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,389 is 19% above the US average of $1,163. Within Connecticut, West Haven's income is 40% below the state average of $123,065, and home values are 49% below the state median of $516,920.
Why Live in West Haven, CT?
West Haven offers short commute times averaging just 24 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($73,566) that falls below the national average. However, as a mid-sized city, West Haven provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
West Haven has a population of 55,147 with a median age of 36 years. Compare West Haven with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Connecticut.
Similar Cities Near West Haven
Cities in Connecticut with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Hartford | 50,798 | $66,943 | $215,400 | Compare |
| Milford city (balance), Connecticut | 50,749 | $110,126 | $377,400 | Compare |
| Meriden | 60,418 | $68,617 | $221,600 | Compare |
| Bristol | 61,129 | $83,458 | $252,300 | Compare |
| Middletown | 47,646 | $73,979 | $279,500 | Compare |
| West Hartford | 63,809 | $125,616 | $391,200 | Compare |
| Shelton | 41,402 | $114,739 | $435,700 | Compare |
| Norwich | 39,992 | $64,185 | $231,300 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Connecticut
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare West Haven With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Haven
What is the population of West Haven, CT?
The population of West Haven, CT is 55,147 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Connecticut.
What is the median household income in West Haven?
The median household income in West Haven, CT is $73,566 per year, which is 2% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Haven?
The median home value in West Haven, CT is $265,200, which is 8% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Haven?
The median monthly rent in West Haven, CT is $1,389, which is 19% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Haven?
The unemployment rate in West Haven, CT is 6.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Haven, CT a good place to live?
West Haven offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 55,147 and a median age of 36, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is West Haven, CT?
29.0% of residents in West Haven 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 Haven?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Haven, CT: median home value is $265,200 (8% above national), median rent is $1,389/month, and median household income is $73,566. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.6x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in West Haven?
The poverty rate in West Haven, CT is 12.5%, 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 Haven, CT?
West Haven's population is 3.5% White, 1.9% Hispanic or Latino, 11.4% Black or African American, 11.1% Asian, and 18.2% two or more races. 20.7% of residents are foreign-born.